● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Understanding the Multi-Purpose Star Button on Roku Remotes
Key points
- Star button function is contextual.
- On home screen, it manages app settings.
- While watching, it accesses viewing options.
- It also functions as an accessibility shortcut.
Contextual Functionality of the Star Button
The star button on Roku remotes, present on both physical remotes and the mobile app, is a multi-purpose control whose function changes based on the user's current activity. It acts as a combination of an "options" button and an accessibility shortcut, with some features specific to Roku TVs compared to streaming boxes.
Home Screen Operations
When on the Roku home screen, the star button's actions depend on the highlighted item. If an app is highlighted in the Quick Access section, pressing star only allows its removal. However, in the full app list, it provides options to view the app's version, move or remove the channel, rate the app, give feedback, or check for updates. On a Roku TV, highlighting an external device like a game console allows users to rename it.
In-Stream Viewing Options
During active video streaming, the star button opens a sidebar with various viewing options. These options can include adjusting image quality, setting a sleep timer, enabling closed captioning, and changing the volume mode. The specific options may differ slightly between apps, and Roku streaming boxes offer fewer options in this menu compared to Roku TVs.
Accessibility Features
Some Roku devices utilize the star button for accessibility features, such as activating a text-to-speech screen reader (formerly Audio Guide). This feature assists with navigation for users requiring auditory cues.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
The daily brief
One email each morning: the day's tech stories, clustered across outlets and summarized. No account needed.
One email a day. Unsubscribe in one click, any time.
Today's brief
Spend a few minutes, get the whole day. Every topic's top stories in one hands-free rundown — listen, watch, or read the transcript.
▶ Play today's brief
New every morning, and the back catalogue is archived by date.
Reporting from
The star button on Roku remotes serves as a contextual options and accessibility shortcut, with its functions varying based on whether the user is on the home screen, watching content, or using a Roku TV versus a streaming box. Knowing its various uses allows users to customize their Roku viewing experience and access device settings.