Roku users have recently raised concerns about washed-out colors and grayish visuals when streaming HDR content, especially on popular apps like Disney Plus, YouTube TV, Netflix, Apple TV Plus, and Amazon Prime Video.
This issue, which appears to be linked to a recent Roku software update, affects a range of Roku TVs, including models from TCL and Hisense. If you’re experiencing faded, desaturated colors during your streaming sessions, you’re not alone.
Roku HDR problems: What’s happening?
Roku users began noticing that after the latest software update-version 14.5-HDR content appeared muted or almost black-and-white, while non-HDR menus and standard content looked normal.
Although initial reports pointed to Disney Plus and TCL TVs, the problem soon surfaced across multiple streaming platforms and different TV brands using Roku software.
A community moderator, RokuEmmanuel-D, confirmed that Roku is actively investigating these issues. The company has asked users to report details, including the TV model and software version, to help diagnose the problem.
Interestingly, the washed-out effect seems limited to streaming apps. For example, one user reported that HDR worked correctly when using HDMI input from a PlayStation 5, and another found that 4K Blu-ray playback was unaffected.
This suggests the issue is rooted in Roku’s streaming software rather than the TV hardware itself.
The challenge is particularly frustrating because HDR (High Dynamic Range) is designed to enhance picture quality with brighter highlights and richer colors.
However, on affected TVs, HDR content often looks flat, gray, and lifeless-much worse than the usual limitations seen on budget TVs that can’t fully display HDR.
User experiences and Troubleshooting steps
Roku community members have shared a range of experiences and attempted fixes. Here’s what we know so far:
- The issue appears after updating to Roku software version 14.5, primarily on TCL and Hisense Roku TVs.
- Washed-out colors affect multiple streaming apps, not just Disney Plus.
- Non-HDR content and app menus display normal colors, isolating the problem to HDR video streams.
- HDMI sources like gaming consoles or Blu-ray players do not exhibit this issue, indicating the problem is specific to Roku’s streaming software.
- Some users have tried disabling HDR in their TV settings or switching to non-HDR content as a temporary workaround.
If you’re experiencing these problems, consider the following steps:
- Check your Roku TV’s software version and note any recent updates.
- Test HDR content across different streaming apps to see if the problem is consistent.
- Try viewing HDR content through an external device (like a Blu-Ray player or game console) to determine if the issue is limited to Roku streaming.
- Report your findings to the company’s support forums, including your TV model, software version, and examples of affected content.
Final words
Roku remains a leading choice for streaming entertainment, but the recent HDR color issues have highlighted the importance of reliable software updates and responsive customer support.
The company is actively investigating the problem and encourages users to share detailed feedback to help resolve it quickly. In the meantime, understanding the scope of the issue and how to troubleshoot can help you get the best possible experience from your Roku device.
If you’re affected by washed-out HDR colors, stay tuned to Roku’s official updates and community forums for solutions. Your feedback is valuable in ensuring that Roku continues to deliver high-quality streaming for everyone.
