Roku plans to shut down its popular Aquatic Life screensaver in December

Roku is retiring its long-running Aquatic Life digital aquarium screensaver. Beginning Dec. 1, 2026, devices using the animation will automatically transition to Roku City, the platform's default purple cityscape that features pop-culture references and rotating sponsored digital billboards. [1][2]

Device owners discovered the change through an on-screen prompt stating the screensaver would no longer be available. Reddit users quickly voiced frustration over the loss. In response to one complaint, Roku stated that Aquatic Life has loyal fans and that customer feedback is being passed to its internal team. Those wanting alternatives can browse other options under their device settings, use third-party aquarium apps, or loop an official clip of the animation on YouTube. [1][2]

The retirement arrives amid larger structural shifts for Roku, which Fox agreed to purchase for $22 billion in June in a deal scheduled to close in 2027. Online speculation linked the screensaver's exit to a licensing dispute following the acquisition, though Roku has not issued an official explanation. [1][2]