Roku Under Fire: “Washed Out” HDR Streams Plague Users, Company Investigates
Roku users are reporting a frustrating issue impacting their viewing experience: washed-out colors when streaming HDR content. The problem seems to stem from a recent software update and affects various apps, including Disney Plus, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, leaving viewers with desaturated and almost black-and-white images.
The issue, initially reported with Disney Plus, quickly spread to other streaming services, triggering a wave of complaints on Roku's community forum. Users are describing the problem as making shows "unwatchable," particularly impacting the vibrancy of HDR content.
"It happens with 4K and HDR titles, all white and washed out," one user lamented on Roku's community site. The problem is particularly noticeable on shows like *Andor*, the Star Wars series on Disney+, where normally vibrant colors appear faded and hazy.
One frustrated user wrote on a Roku forum: "This issue has been going on for nearly a week with no fix or timeline on when it will be fixed. This is unacceptable service."
Roku has acknowledged the problem and stated they are investigating the issue. "We’re investigating the Disney Plus HDR content that was washed out after the recent update," a Roku representative posted on the forum, requesting affected users to share details about their devices and the specific HDR issues they are experiencing.
While the company is asking for cooperation, some users remain understandably frustrated. The timing of the issue coincides with the launch of Roku's new Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick Plus, adding another layer of disappointment for customers.
It's important to note that washed-out colors can sometimes be attributed to TVs that aren't bright enough to properly display HDR content. However, the current reports indicate something more severe, with Roku devices producing significantly desaturated images, even impacting app menus in some cases.
The problem is reportedly affecting a range of Roku TV brands, including TCL and Hisense, running software version 14.5. Some users have reported that HDR content works fine via HDMI from devices like PS5 or 4K Blu-Ray players, suggesting the issue is specifically related to Roku's streaming functionality.
Roku didn't immediately respond to requests for comment regarding a timeline for a fix. In the meantime, many users are left with a degraded viewing experience, highlighting the importance of software stability and thorough testing.
How widespread is this issue, and how quickly will Roku resolve it? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
