- Roku streaming devices do not come with an HDMI cable in their box
- …but you can still get one for free if you ask for it
- The application process is simple and should only take a few minutes.
If you’ve tried a few different brands of streaming devices, you’ll have noticed that Roku devices lack an extra HDMI cable that you’d get for free with an Amazon Fire Stick. Well, it turns out you can get this cable for free with Roku devices too, if you know where to ask.
Whether you’re upgrading an old TV, want to access your favorite streaming content when you travel, or have some other need for one, streaming devices like Amazon and Roku can be very useful.
But depending on the design and port layout of your TV and the other devices you’ve connected, it can be difficult to connect a streaming device directly to your screen, which is why Amazon Fire Sticks and others may come with an HDMI extender, an additional short cable that creates more space between the device and the screen.
In the box of your Roku device, you won’t find an extender, but you can order one for free from an official Roku HDMI page. You will only need to fill out the form with your name, address, phone number, and the serial number of your streaming device.
The serial number will be printed on the device, with a label ‘SN:#####’, and your device’s serial number will replace #####. Alternatively, your device’s serial number should appear in the Roku app; Go to the Devices page, tap the three-dot menu icon next to the streaming device, and then tap View system information.
Once all your information is completed, the HDMI extender will be shipped to your home free of charge; You shouldn’t even have to pay for shipping.
Cord Cutters News recently pointed out this hidden feature and while the order form has been around for some time, it has been reported that ordering an extender has become a much simpler process.
While it’s not as simple as including the HDMI cable in the box to begin with, this approach saves Roku some costs and reduces technology waste. Obviously, for us consumers, it means that setting up a Roku streaming device can take a little longer as we have to wait for a second package to arrive at our homes.
Not including this tool in the box could also reduce the effectiveness of Roku streaming devices, as an extender can improve airflow to the device, which helps with performance.
However, if you’ve been having problems with your Roku device, this could be the solution you needed.
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