Roku gets free update to turn any TV into a work of art

Roku gets free update to turn any TV into a work of art

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    Roku wallpapers.     Roku wallpapers.

Credit: Roku

Short summary

A new Backdrops feature is coming to Roku TVs and streaming devices.

This turns your set into a hanging painting, with thousands of artworks to choose from.

Roku will be releasing a free update in the coming weeks that will add a number of new features, including the ability to turn your TV into a work of art.

Similar to Samsung’s The Frame and upcoming TCL NXTFRAME TVs, the new Backdrops mode showcases classic and contemporary artwork onscreen, brightening up your home decor when you’re not watching a show or movie.

Thousands of different photos will be available to download and display for free – there will be no subscription fee to use them. They include paintings by Monet and Manet. You will even be able to upload your own portraits to use on your set.

Images can be cycled through using the remote control and you can create entire galleries that automatically update over time. You can also choose between different artist-specific galleries or your favorite museum to view the collection.

Voice control is also supported, allowing you to turn Wallpapers on or off with your voice.

“Our TVs are more than just a device for streaming shows and movies. They can now enhance the aesthetics of any room, with the ease of a single click,” said Brian Pinkerton, the company’s SVP of advanced development.

“Our customers can now turn any TV screen into a conversation piece, and better yet, it’s free.”

Backdrops will first be available on Roku TV models (both own-brand and third-party), before arriving on the brand’s streaming devices “this fall.”

It’s unclear if this will be US-only at first or if it’s a global rollout. We’ll let you know as soon as we know.

The T3 is on display this week at IFA 2024 in Germany, where we’ll be checking out a wide range of TVs, sound systems and other AV gear, so we’ll bring you more news, including the Roku update, as soon as we have it.