Experiencing unwanted audio descriptions on your Roku device can be frustrating. Whether it’s the Screen Reader announcing every menu selection or a verbal description overlaying your movies and shows, understanding how to disable these features is essential for a seamless viewing experience. This guide will walk you through the steps to remove the audio guide, ensuring you regain control over your Roku’s audio output.
There are generally two distinct systems on Roku that can cause these voice overlays: the Screen Reader feature and alternative audio tracks within specific programs. Let’s explore each scenario and how to address them.
The first scenario involves the Roku’s Screen Reader, designed to assist visually impaired users by vocalizing menu options and button presses. This can inadvertently be activated and become a nuisance for users who don’t need it. The second issue arises when programs contain multiple audio tracks, including language options or descriptive audio tracks for the visually impaired. Let’s delve into how to resolve both situations.
Disabling Roku’s Screen Reader Feature
The Screen Reader feature on Roku announces your location within the menus. It can be toggled on or off by pressing the * key on your Roku remote four times in quick succession. If you’ve accidentally activated this feature, simply repeat the four quick presses to disable it.
Alternatively, you can disable the four-star trigger shortcut to prevent accidental activation in the future:
- Navigate to Settings on your Roku home screen.
- Select Accessibility.
- Find the Shortcut option within the Screen Reader section.
- Choose Disabled.
By disabling this shortcut, you eliminate the risk of accidentally turning on the Screen Reader through unintended remote input.
Removing Audio Descriptions within Programs
Some programs offer multiple audio tracks, which may include different languages or descriptive audio for the visually impaired. This can lead to an unwanted verbal description of the on-screen action playing over the program’s normal audio.
The standard Roku method to select an audio track is to press the * key on your Roku remote while watching the program. A menu should appear, allowing you to choose your preferred audio track. Look for options like “English,” “Original,” or “Descriptive Audio” and select the appropriate one.
However, many channels are moving away from the Roku default and implementing their own methods for accessing audio options. This is likely to maintain consistency across different platforms where their apps are available. In these cases, you might need to use the up and/or down cursor control keys while viewing the program to access the channel’s specific control options. Explore the on-screen menus that appear to find the audio track selection.
Troubleshooting Audio Guide Issues
If you’ve followed the above steps and are still experiencing issues with the audio guide, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
- Restart your Roku device: A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches. Navigate to Settings > System > Power > System restart.
- Check for Roku updates: Ensure your Roku device is running the latest software version. Go to Settings > System > System update > Check now.
- Contact the channel provider: If the issue persists within a specific channel, it might be a problem with their audio settings. Contact their customer support for assistance.
- Factory reset (as a last resort): If all else fails, a factory reset can restore your Roku device to its original settings. Note that this will erase all your personal preferences and require you to set up your device again. Navigate to Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset.
Conclusion
Removing unwanted audio descriptions from your Roku device involves understanding the source of the audio overlay, whether it’s the system-wide Screen Reader feature or a specific audio track within a program. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily disable these features and enjoy a more personalized and enjoyable viewing experience. Remember to explore the audio settings within individual channels, as they may have their own unique methods for adjusting audio tracks. With a little troubleshooting, you can regain control of your Roku’s audio output and eliminate any unwanted voiceovers.
