Q. I accidentally deleted my Spectrum TV app from my Roku box and I can’t get it back. I know the companies are fighting over something, but is there anything new? Are they close to a new agreement? I can’t download the app anymore!! — Sherry, Chincoteague, Virginia.
Sherry, Roku two months ago removed Charter’s Spectrum TV app from its Channel Store in the latest carriage dispute involving the streaming device maker.
Update: Roku & Charter Settle Dispute
The app, which allows Charter’s Spectrum subscribers to watch live TV and On Demand programming, is still available for Roku owners who have previously downloaded it. However, you can no longer download it from the Roku Channel Store, and if you uninstall it from your Roku menu, you will not be able to replace it, as you obviously understand all too well.
In addition, many Roku/Spectrum subscribers say their apps have mysteriously disappeared from their menus although they have done nothing to trigger their deletion.
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To your question, is there anything new? Unfortunately, the answer is no and there’s no indication that a settlement between the companies is imminent. Charter still has the same web page up urging people not to delete their apps (if they were downloaded prior to the fee fight) while Roku continues to say next to nothing when asked about the stalemate.
If you want to look for precedents for how long this battle will last, Roku removed the AT&T TV app from its Channel Store in January 2020 when the companies were fighting over fees.
They didn’t reach a new agreement until May 2020.
That doesn’t mean Roku vs. Spectrum TV will last five months, but it does mean that the device maker is willing to play hardball to get its way now. In past years, Roku was more inclined to make concessions to add as many interesting streaming channels as possible to lure new customers. But now that it has more than 50 million accounts, it’s ready to flex its muscles.
Sherry, hope that helps. Happy viewing, and stay safe!
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The ONLY reason I purchased 2 Roku devices was to have Spectrum access. I THINK WE SHOULD BE REFUNDED.
Spectrum states to upgrade your Roku, but I suspect that will not work. Looks like they want us to pay for another cable box on our additional TVs… Waiting to hear if anyone who bought a new premium Roku can stream Spectrum? They knocked out all VCR taping ability, and the DVR tapes only 2 shows simultaneously. On Demand is sketchy, and glitchy.
If it is ok to stab customers who pay for spectrum app , why can’t spectrum stop roku at the server farm. I mean get some spine spectrum
I pay spectrum $160 month and have 3 TVs but one DVR. The Roku accesses the basic programming in a second TV. To add another DVR or Spectrum lower end box that has no more taping capabilities costs about $25 a month more. I have no premium stations for that price.
This really sucks!