Can my Roku® streaming device be controlled using an app?
The free Roku mobile app for iOS® and Android™ devices is an app you can use to control your Roku streaming player or Roku TV™. In addition, Roku enables third-party developers to create remote control applications. This is achieved through the use of an open interface designed and published by Roku with no security risks to a customer’s account or the Roku platform.
For this to work, the device running the app must be connected to the same wireless network that your Roku device is connected to. Of course, as always, we suggest you lock your wireless network to ensure others cannot access it. Your Roku device must also be permitted to accept commands over your home network. You can manage this communication using the External Control settings on your Roku device. If you turn off the setting then no apps will work with your device.
Where can I manage the External Control settings?
You can access External Control on your Roku device from the Settings menu.
- Press the Home button
on your Roku remote. - Select Settings then System followed by Advanced system settings.
- Select External Control and finally Network access.
- Choose one of the three setting options.
- Default: For most users who want to use the Roku Mobile App or a third-party app to control their Roku device, choose this setting.
- Permissive: If you want to use the Roku Mobile App or a third-party app to control your Roku device, and you are on a publicly addressable network, choose this setting.
- Note: A publicly addressable network is an advanced configuration. Most users do not have this type of network.
- Note: A publicly addressable network is an advanced configuration. Most users do not have this type of network.
- Disable: If you do not wish to enable use of the Roku Mobile App or a third-party app to control your Roku device, choose this setting.
- Note: When External Control is disabled, you will not be able to change your settings unless you have a Roku remote – do not lose it!
Last updated at 3/3/2026 1:33:11 AM
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