Introduction to the Issue
Roku is currently investigating reports of washed-out colors when streaming HDR content from Disney Plus. The issue was first reported on the Roku issue tracking board, where users shared their experiences with the problem. Initially, it seemed that the issue was limited to Disney Plus and TCL TVs, but as more users commented, it became clear that the problem was more widespread.
The Problem and Its Symptoms
The problem appears to be tied to a recent Roku software update, with users reporting desaturated, almost black-and-white images when watching HDR content. The issue is not limited to Disney Plus, as users have reported similar problems with other apps such as YouTube TV, Netflix, Apple TV Plus, and Amazon Prime Video. The symptoms of the problem include washed-out colors, with normally vibrant colors taking on a gray-ish pall. Some users have reported that the issue only occurs when streaming HDR content, and that non-HDR content appears normal.
Affected Devices and Software
The issue seems to be affecting various Roku TV models, including those from TCL and Hisense. Users have reported that their TVs are running on Roku software version 14.5, which suggests that the problem may be related to this specific update. Some users have also reported that they do not experience the issue when streaming HDR content from other devices, such as their PS5 or 4K Blu-Ray player, which implies that the problem is limited to Roku streaming.
Comparison to Similar Issues
Washed-out or flat colors can be a common issue when watching HDR content on a TV that is not bright enough to produce a good HDR image. However, the reports from Roku users describe a more severe problem, with colors being completely desaturated. This suggests that the issue is not simply a matter of the TV not being able to produce a good HDR image, but rather a problem with the Roku software or streaming process.
Investigation and Response
Roku has acknowledged the issue and is currently investigating the problem. A community moderator has asked users to share examples and details about the content that is being affected, as well as the model of TV they are using and the software version they are running. The company has not yet commented on the cause of the problem or when a fix can be expected.
Conclusion
The issue of washed-out colors on Roku TVs is a significant problem that affects the viewing experience of users. While the cause of the problem is still unknown, it is clear that it is related to the recent Roku software update. Roku’s investigation into the issue is ongoing, and users can hope that a fix will be available soon. In the meantime, users can try troubleshooting the issue by checking their TV settings and ensuring that they are running the latest software version.
