“Help! My Spotify app won’t open on my Roku device.”
Geez! It’s my nth time hearing this same problem from several people.
I guess it’s a common concern among many Roku users.
But don’t worry, fixing it is super easy…
I swear. You won’t even dare call support after this.
So, shall we get started?
Read on to learn:
- 7 effective ways to fix Spotify that isn’t working on Roku.
- How to restart and clear cache on Roku to fix software errors.
- Guide on reinstalling the Spotify channel to resolve app glitches.
- 1 simple trick to play Spotify on Roku if it isn’t launching properly.
- And so much more…
Why is Spotify not working on Roku?
Spotify isn’t working on Roku due to slow or unstable internet connection, channel glitches, and outdated Roku device software. It’ll also not work if the Roku device cache storage is loaded. Or if the TV is malfunctioning. Software bugs and system errors on the Roku device can also be the reason.
Spotify not working on Roku: 7 fixes
#1: Check your WiFi connection
First, ensure that your WiFi connection is stable.
Why?
Your Roku device needs internet to work. Without WiFi, you won’t be able to stream any content from it. Or even launch a streaming app.
Use this checklist to check your WiFi connection:
- Is your WiFi router powered ON?
- Is your Roku device connected to the WiFi?
- If you’re using an Ethernet connection, is the cable properly connected?
Suppose you answer “No” to some or all of the questions. Make sure to address the problems first.
You may also check the speed of your WiFi connection.
Note: You need to have at least 3Mbps to stream SD (standard) resolution. And you must have at least 25Mbps to watch 4K UHD content.
If your internet speed is lower than that, improve your connection by:
- Using WiFi repeaters.
- Upgrading your internal plan.
- Moving your Roku device close to the router.
- Disconnecting not-in-use devices to the network.
Check out: How To Stop a Roku From Streaming When TV Is Off
#2: Play Spotify on your phone first
Can’t launch Spotify on your Roku device?
Here’s a simple trick to “force-launch” it:
Step 1: Open the Spotify app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Play any song your like from it.
Step 3: Press the “cast” icon at the bottom-left corner.
Look for a TV-and-speaker icon. It should be right above the lyrics page.
Step 4: Tap your Roku device.
Step 5: Then, wait for the Spotify channel to open and play on your Roku device.
It can take several seconds before the app loads on your Roku.
Note: While this often does the trick, this is only a temporary solution.
The Spotify app may fail to relaunch again after turning off your Roku device.
So, make sure also to check out the other solutions below.
#3: Update the Roku device
Sometimes, the Spotify channel won’t launch due to outdated Roku software.
So, check whether there’s an update available for your device.
Note: Roku devices are designed to update their software automatically.
However, you must manually check for updates if you’ve:
- Installed a certified or non-certified channel.
- Turned off your device for long hours or days.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: On the Roku remote, press “Home.”
Look for a button that has a house icon. It should be in the upper-right area of the remote.
Step 2: Search for and select “Settings.”
Use the arrow buttons to scroll down on the page until you find it.
Step 3: Click System>System Update.
Step 4: Then, tap “Check Now.”
Suppose there’s an update available. Your Roku device will automatically install it.
#4: Reboot the TV
If you’re using a Roku Streaming Stick or Roku Media Player…
Try to reboot the TV you’re using it with.
Note: A reboot doesn’t delete anything except temporary data (RAM). So, no need to worry about your files and customization getting deleted.
Doing this can help resolve electronic glitches. That may be causing the Spotify channel on your Roku device not to launch.
To reboot your TV:
- Ensure that the TV is powered ON.
- Unplug its power cord from the outlet.
- Let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Replug it into the outlet.
- Then, power it ON.
Important note: Make sure to wait for at least 30 seconds, as it’s a crucial step in the process. Otherwise, it won’t fix the issue with your Roku device.
Reading recommendation: Do You Need a Smart TV for a Roku Stick? 3 Weird Facts
#5: Clear the cache on Roku
If that didn’t resolve anything, clear the cache on your Roku device.
Note: A cache is a temporary storage that stores the “most used” data on the device. Its function is to help the device respond faster using the information stored on it.
Clearing cache on your device removes unnecessary data that eats up storage space. Which may be causing your Roku to lag or slow down.
Here’s how to clear the cache on your Roku:
Step 1: Ensure that your Roku device is plugged in and powered ON.
Step 2: Press the HOME button on the Roku remote.
Step 3: On the menu page, click “Home.”
Step 4: Back on the remote, press the HOME button 5 times.
Step 5: Press the UP NAVIGATION ARROW button once.
Step 6: Press the REWIND button twice. Look for a two-arrow icon that’s pointing left.
Step 7: Press the FAST FORWARD button twice. Look for a two-arrow icon that’s pointing right.
Then, just wait for several seconds for your Roku device to restart.
#6: Restart the Roku device
Are you using a Roku TV device?
If yes, then restart it.
Note: Restarting a Roku TV is completely different from “restarting” a regular smart TV.
Here’s how to properly do it:
Step 1: Turn on your Roku TV.
Step 2: On the Roku remote, press the HOME button.
Step 3: Scroll down until you find “Settings.” Then, click it once.
Step 4: Among the options, select “System.”
Step 5: If there’s a Power submenu on your screen, click “POWER.”
Otherwise, jump to the next step.
Step 6: Then, tap “System Restart.”
This will prompt your device to turn off and on once.
Just wait for several seconds, and see if it resolved the problem.
#7: Reinstall Spotify + restart Roku
Still didn’t work? Then, try this method that has worked for many Roku users.
First, remove the Spotify channel from your Roku. Then, restart your device. After that, reinstall the Spotify channel.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Using the Roku remote, press HOME.
Step 2: Press the ARROW buttons to highlight the Spotify channel on the screen.
Step 3: On the remote, press the asterisk (*) button.
Step 4: Click “Remove Channel.” And tap “Confirm” when asked.
Step 5: Restart your Roku device.
Go to Settings>System>Power>System Restart.
Step 6: Back on the remote, press HOME.
Step 7: Use the DOWN ARROW to select “Steaming Channels.”
Step 8: Use the DOWN ARROW again to click “Search Channels.”
Step 9: Type “Spotify” on the search bar. Then, tap the Spotify channel.
Step 10: Click “Add Channel.” Then, wait for the installation process to finish.
Or you can also watch this video to learn how to install channels on your Roku device:
BONUS: Factory reset the TV
If the last solution didn’t resolve anything, perhaps that problem is with your TV.
To fix the issue, factory reset your TV.
Warning: A factory reset removes your data and resets customized settings. So, do this only when necessary.
The steps vary depending on your TV model.
But here’s how it’s typically done:
- Go to the TV’s settings.
- Click “General.”
- Select “Reset.”
- If prompted, enter your PIN.
- Then, tap “Reset” again.
After this, make sure to set up your Roku device again.
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