Unquestionably, Twitch is one of the biggest platforms for gamers and serves as a great place to follow other gamers’ live streaming as they play. The platform has also encouraged expansion into other types of broadcasts, including music, sports, news, etc. Twitch is one of those platforms that can be viewed almost anywhere, with apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire TV, PlayStation, Xbox, and Apple TV. One notable absence is Roku. Fortunately, you can rectify Twitch’s absence on Roku fairly easily. Let’s take a look at how you can stream Twitch on Roku.
Also read: Which Roku Streaming Device Should I Buy?
How to Add Twitch to Roku
- The first step is to go to https://my.roku.com on your browser. Enter your login credentials into the Roku site.
- Upon login, you should be taken to your “My Account” page. On this page you can locate a menu option for “Add channel with a code.” This is located midway down on the page underneath the “Manage Account” heading.
- Click on “Add channel with a code” to be taken to an add channel screen. It’s here that you can type any number of available codes for software that is not officially supported by Roku. In the case of Twitch, type in “Twoku” (not case sensitive) and hit “Add Channel.”
- When you attempt to add the channel, a pop-up should appear, indicating that you are trying to add a non-verified channel. This is natural and mostly serves to remove any responsibility of Roku from the addition of the channel.
- Hit “OK” to accept the terms and conditions.
- On the next screen, you should see the Twoku icon appear along with a message that the channel is FREE and that it doesn’t have ratings for its content. Click “Yes, add channel” on this screen.
Once the channel is added, all you have to do is (potentially) log in and start watching Twitch. You will be able to browse channels and categories to stream, but chat features are disabled. In the event Twoku doesn’t immediately appear on your homepage, make sure to refresh your page by going to “Settings -> System -> System Update,” which will also refresh your home page and add the Twoku channel.
Should you need to log in, visit the Twoku website on your computer or smartphone/tablet browser and type the code that is shown on the Roku TV screen when you try to access the Twoku app. You will go through all of the permission screens, click on Authorize and should then be all set if the login doesn’t work initially from the TV.
Also read: 22 Android TV Apps to Supercharge Your Smart TV
Streaming through Chromecast, AirPlay, etc. on a Roku TV
If the idea of adding an unverified third-party app to your Roku TV gives you pause, rest assured that it is not your only option. While Roku is also an operating system for televisions, additional streaming services like Chromecast and AirPlay still function just fine once they are plugged in via HDMI or the AirPlay feature is enabled.
On macOS
- Turn on your Roku TV and select your Chromecast or AirPlay channel.
- In the case of AirPlay, go to “Settings -> Apple AirPlay and HomeKit” and enable AirPlay on your Roku television.
- Then, on macOS, click on the Control Center icon and click on “Screen Mirroring” and select the Roku television.
On Windows
Windows users should also look to mirror Twitch within the Windows environment by hitting Win + A, which will open up the Action Center. Click on “Project -> Duplicate,” then “Connect to a wireless display.”
Also read: What Is a Stream Deck and Should a Non-Gamer Buy One
On Mobile Devices
- Open the Twitch app and start the app on any Android or iOS smart device (iPhone or iPad).
- Tap the Cast icon or the AirPlay button, and a new window will pop up asking which television you wish to stream to.
- Make your selection and start streaming.
Some Android devices (smartphone and tablet) will utilize the “Smart View” feature to cast to a Roku television or device. This can be found similarly to Apple’s Control Center by flicking down at the top of the screen to bring up your menu options. You can also stream Twitch using third-party live streaming apps.
Also read: How to Use OBS to Stream on Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and YouTube Gaming
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will Roku ever remove the Twoku app?
The best option would be for Roku to one day restore the official Twitch app, but that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen anytime soon. However, it’s very unlikely, as Amazon owns Twitch, and Roku and Amazon’s Fire TV are direct competitors. There is always a chance that Twoku will be removed, but if so, there is a good chance a new Twitch option would immediately pop up.
2. Does Twoku provide the same feature set as the official Twitch app?
No, Twoku is more about watching than anything else, as it limits the level of engagement you will have with creators. It’s unfortunate, but as a workaround, Twitch works well enough to still enjoy all of your favorite streamers, creators and gamers on the biggest screen in your home.
3. How do I block mirror settings on Roku if I want to remove an older device?
On your Roku TV, go to “Settings -> System -> Screen Mirroring.” In this menu you can set connections to allow, never allow or always prompt. Here you can remove older devices that you no longer own or block a device if you want to prevent kids from streaming Twitch to your television.
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