Roku Angers Users By Bricking Their Devices Unless They Agree To “Dispute Resolution Terms”

Roku

Let’s be honest…

Roku has managed to upset their users with a recent update. A non-dismissible pop-up requiring users to agree to some “dispute resolution terms” essentially keeps you from using your device unless you agree to said terms, with no option to skip or be reminded later. And that pop-up basically turns your device, regardless of whether it’s a separate Roku device or integrated with a television, into a brick.

The issue started last week, with users complaining about the pop-up over on Roku’s official forums.

This post also includes the portion of the agreement that gives the requirements to opt out of it. Requirements which are both specific and difficult to manage: Sending a snail mail letter to Roku’s San Jose offices with a valid purchase receipt, as well as a host of other information that the company should already have. In essence, it’s a massive exercise in pointless bureaucracy.

These terms aren’t exactly new; they’ve been around since at least 2019. The new ones are, however, much longer and more stringent. Not to mention how they keep you from using the device you paid for in the first place. Much like those older terms, these new ones require users to settle disputes through arbitration rather than via lawsuit. They also require users to settle disputes through arbitration within 45 days of any such incident, and abandon any idea of using a class-action lawsuit against the company in favor of “mass arbitration”. Thye reasoning for all of this arbitration is that it is fundamentally private.

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Welcome to the dystopia dumbass tech people wanted. It’s somehow sadder and crappier than any depressing 70’s sci-fi movie predicted.

Source: PC Mag

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B. Simmons

Based out of Glendale California, Bryan is a GAMbIT's resident gaming contributor. Specializing in PC and portable gaming, you can find Bryan on his 3DS playing Monster Hunter or at one of the various conventions throughout the state.

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