It can be frustrating when your Roku starts narrating everything you do. This usually stems from two distinct features: the Screen Reader and alternative audio tracks within certain programs. Understanding the source of the voice guide is key to turning it off. This guide will provide you with a complete understanding of how to disable voice guide on Roku.
Disabling the Roku Screen Reader
The Screen Reader is a built-in accessibility feature designed to assist visually impaired users by announcing menu selections and button presses. If you’ve accidentally activated it, here’s how to turn it off:
- The Quick Shortcut: The easiest way to toggle the Screen Reader on or off is by pressing the * key on your Roku remote four times in quick succession. Give it a try! Four quick presses of the asterisk key should toggle the feature off.
Alt text: Roku remote, asterisk key highlighted in red, showing the shortcut to turn off the Screen Reader feature.
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Disable the Shortcut: To prevent accidental activation in the future, you can disable the four-* trigger altogether. Here’s how:
- Navigate to Settings on your Roku home screen.
- Select Accessibility.
- In the Screen Reader section, choose Shortcut.
- Select Disabled.
This will ensure that the Screen Reader is only activated or deactivated through the settings menu.
Turning Off Audio Descriptions Within Programs
Sometimes, the voice you’re hearing isn’t the Roku Screen Reader, but an audio description track within the program you’re watching. This is common on channels that provide accessibility options for viewers with visual impairments.
- Using the Roku Default Method: The standard way to access audio track options is to press the * key on your Roku remote while the program is playing. This should bring up a menu where you can select a different audio track. Look for an option that doesn’t include terms like “Descriptive Audio” or “Audio Description.”
Alt text: The accessibility section in Roku settings, highlighting the screen reader and shortcut options to disable voice guide.
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Channel-Specific Methods: Increasingly, channels are implementing their own methods for selecting audio tracks, deviating from the Roku default. This is often done to maintain a consistent user experience across different platforms.
- Look for On-Screen Controls: While watching the program, try pressing the up or down cursor control keys on your Roku remote. This might bring up the channel’s own control options, which may include audio track selection.
- Explore the Channel’s Settings: Some channels have a dedicated settings menu within their interface. Look for audio options within these settings. The location of these settings can vary greatly from channel to channel, so some exploration may be necessary.
- Consult the Channel’s Help Resources: If you’re struggling to find the audio settings, check the channel’s website or help documentation. They should provide specific instructions for accessing audio options within their Roku app.
Conclusion
Turning off the voice guide on your Roku involves identifying whether the voice is stemming from the Screen Reader accessibility feature or an alternative audio track within the program being viewed. By utilizing the methods described above, you can effectively disable the voice guide and return to enjoying your Roku experience without unwanted narration. Be sure to explore the options available both in your Roku settings and within the streaming channel itself to customize your viewing experience effectively.
