Roku TVs come preloaded with the Roku Channel Store, which provides access to thousands of streaming channels and apps. However, the Roku Channel Store does not include Google Chrome, the popular web browser from Google. While Roku TVs are designed primarily for streaming content rather than web browsing, there are still ways to get Google Chrome on your Roku TV.
Google Chrome is one of the most widely used web browsers globally. Its clean interface, speed, security, and syncing capabilities across devices make it an appealing choice for many internet users. With the ability to install Chrome extensions that can customize and expand its functionality, having Chrome available can enhance your experience using a Roku TV.
Roku TVs run a version of Linux and are designed as smart TVs focused on streaming content from channels rather than using installed apps and programs. So getting Chrome running requires workarounds like sideloading unsupported Android apps. While it takes some effort, having the full desktop version of Chrome on a Roku TV opens up convenient web browsing, streaming access beyond the Roku channel store, and all the features millions rely on Chrome for.
Alternatives to install Google Chrome on Roku TV
There are a couple of different methods you can use to get Google Chrome on a Roku TV. Here are the main options:
Use AirScreen to Mirror Chrome from Another Device
This method uses the AirScreen app to mirror Chrome running on your computer or mobile device:
- Install the free AirScreen app from the Roku Channel Store on your Roku TV.
- On your computer or mobile device, open Google Chrome. Make sure your device is connected to the same WiFi network as your Roku TV.
- Open the AirScreen app on your Roku, select the Mirror option, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your computer or mobile device.
- Chrome on your device will now be mirrored onto your TV. You can browse the web, stream content, and more.
Use Remote Desktop Software
There are remote desktop apps like the Android Remote Desktop app that let you remotely control your Android TV or tablet. You can install Chrome remotely on the Android device and control Chrome via the remote desktop connection:
- Install a remote desktop server app like Remote Desktop for Android on your Nvidia Shield TV, Chromecast with Google TV, or other Android TV device.
- Install the Android Remote Desktop client app on the device you want to control your Android TV device from.
- Pair the server and client. Log in remotely to your Android TV device.
- Install Google Chrome remotely through the Play Store on the Android TV device.
- You can now open and use Chrome through the remote desktop connection.
Conclusion
While Roku TVs are geared for streaming, having access to install Google Chrome opens up additional functionality. With Chrome available on your Roku TV, you can conveniently access websites, web apps, and streaming content that may not be available through Roku channels. It takes a bit more effort than installing a typical app, but through sideloading, mirroring, remote desktop apps, and more you can get the Chrome browser experience on the big screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about installing Google Chrome on Roku TVs:
Can I install Google Chrome on any Roku TV?
Unfortunately you cannot directly install the Google Chrome browser on a Roku TV. Roku TVs run Roku’s own software and do not support installing third party apps like Chrome. However, there are a few potential workarounds:
- You may be able to screen mirror or cast content from a Chrome browser on another device like a phone, tablet or computer to your Roku TV. This allows you to view Chrome on the TV indirectly.
- Some Roku TV models support screen mirroring via Miracast, which could potentially allow mirroring Chrome from a Windows PC. You’d have to check if your model supports Miracast.
- You can connect another device like an Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV or game console to your Roku TV and install the Chrome browser on that. Then you can access Chrome on your TV via that secondary device.
- There are some experimental methods like installing a custom Linux distro on a Roku TV, but this is complex and likely not worth the effort for most people.
So in summary – Roku TVs themselves do not support Chrome installation directly, but you have some workarounds like screen mirroring or connecting another device. The simplest option is likely to just cast or mirror Chrome from your phone, tablet or computer when needed.
Does Google Chrome use a lot of system resources on a Roku TV?
Chrome is more resource intensive than the native Roku apps. Running it may impact performance somewhat, depending on your Roku TV model. Limiting tabs and extensions can help if you notice lag.
Is Google Chrome available on all Roku devices?
Chrome installation requires workarounds like sideloading. This is doable on Roku TVs and streaming devices running Roku OS, like the Ultra and Express. It is not currently feasible on non-TV devices like Roku sticks.
Can I install Chrome extensions on Google Chrome for Roku?
Yes, the full desktop version of Chrome with extension support can be installed on Roku TVs. Popular extensions like ad-blockers, media tools, and more will function.
Is there a way to make Google Chrome the default browser on my Roku TV?
Unfortunately there is no way to set Chrome as the true default browser across the whole Roku TV system. But once launched, Chrome can be used for general web browsing.
How can I uninstall Google Chrome from my Roku TV if needed?
You can uninstall Chrome using the “Remove Channel” option for the Downloader app, or via the App Settings menu for sideloaded apps on your Roku TV. Uninstalling will free up storage space.
