Roku is a very popular digital media player that allows the user to stream content to a TV from various online video streaming platforms. Other than that, there are also tons of free content available to stream on a Roku device. However, a common request of Roku users is to be able to browse the Web with the device. Although there is no native way of browsing the net from a Roku device, you are not out of luck. There are two methods that you can follow to use the Roku device as a web browser on your TV.
Also read: How to Set Up a Roku TV Box
Cast Web Browser from Windows 10 to Roku Device
The first method involves the use of a Windows 10 PC or laptop. Thanks to Miracast technology, you can project your Windows 10 computer’s screen onto your Roku device and surf the Internet on your big TV screen. Notably, this works with all devices that support the casting feature.
To begin, first make sure you have the latest version of Windows 10 installed on your computer. Be sure to check for the latest update under the “Update & Security” section.
Press the small notification icon with a speech bubble symbol on the lower rightmost corner of your Windows 10 laptop or desktop taskbar. From the tile of options, select the Project option.
Clicking on the Project option will show you the list of options that you can use. The options are:
- PC screen only: this will display on your PC and not on the other screen.
- Duplicate: this option will duplicate your computer’s screen to your Roku device.
- Extend: using this option, you can use the Roku device as an additional monitor.
- Second screen only: you can project your Windows 10 PC’s screen only to the Roku device. It won’t display anything on your PC screen.
The most commonly used option is Extend. This option will allow you to use your PC’s screen along with the web browser on the TV using the Roku device.
Simply select your desired option from the Project list, then click the “Connect to a wireless display” option at the bottom of the list. Doing this will show you all the devices you can connect to and cast your Windows 10 PC’s screen too. From the list, you need to select your Roku device.
In a matter of a few seconds, you will see your TV screen lit up with your computer’s screen. This confirms that your Windows 10 PC is connected to your Roku device. Now you can launch any of your favorite web browsers and use them on your TV screen using the Roku device.
One important thing to note is that the sound of any video content played on your TV screen will be played through your computer’s speakers, not from the TV.
Cast Web Browser from Android to Roku Device
The second method on our list is to cast your Android device’s screen to a Roku device. This would allow you to conveniently surf the Internet on your Roku device using your Android phone.
Most Android devices come with an option called “Screen Mirroring.” Even though it might be called a different name on different devices, the function remains the same.
In our case, we are using a Samsung device. The cast or mirror function is called “Smart View.” Simply swipe down the notification bar and select the Smart View option.
Further, it will show you a list of available wireless devices that support screencast. From the list, select your Roku device.
Moreover, after selecting your Roku device, tap on Start Now in a new pop-up that asks you whether you want to begin casting. Your Android screen will immediately show up on your TV screen. Finally, you can open your favorite web browser and surf the Internet on your TV using an Android phone on a Roku device.
Wrapping Up
Using the above two simple methods, you can use your Roku device as a web browser on your TV. Other than that, you can also use Roku to view your Google Play movies, music and photos.
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