Super Bowl 2020: Roku Losing Fox Apps Right Before the Game
The carriage dispute between Roku and Fox might restrict you from watching Super Bowl 2020 on Feb 3 2020. Here is the reason and details on how to stream Super Bowl in 4K Ultra HD with HDR.
Super Bowl 2020 is on our doorsteps, and if you were planning to enjoy it on Roku with the Fox app, then there is some bad news. Roku recently informed its customers that as of Jan 31, 2020, Fox apps will be removed from the platform. The company have advised the customers to use Hulu (Live TV,) YouTube TV, Sling TV apps, or Fubo. Roku went as far as to mention the free trial offers of the suggested platforms.
Where to Watch Super Bowl 2020 Instead?
If you own a Roku TV instead of a streaming box or stick, then it is advised to avail an antenna for an over-the-air Fox broadcast. While before you could stream the Super Bowl on Roku and Amazon FireTV 4K, only the latter will be streaming it now.
Why Roku Removed Fox Apps?
The reason is not a publicity stunt or a technical issue; it is a straight-up carriage dispute (distribution agreement) between Fox and Roku. Roku vice-president, Tricia Mifsud stated that Roku and Fox’s distribution agreement would expire from Jan 31. He went on to report that Fox was given an offer to extend the services, but they failed to meet the requirements. However, not everything seems as dark since Roku intends to continue the discussions hoping to agree in-between.
Which Fox Channels are Deleting?
Roku will delete 7 Fox channels namely:
- Fox Nation
- Fox News
- Fox Now
- Fox Soccer
- Fox Sports
- Fox Business
- Big Ten Network
In case you have Fox Sports app downloaded, then you will still have to arrange other things. After the Roku-Fox agreement expires, the application will be rendered non-functional. You can still stream Super Bowl 2020 if you have a Samsung Smart TV or Xbox. The majority of the iOS and Android devices can stream Super Bowl 2020 as well.
What is surprising is that Roku did not mention anything regarding the Super Bowl. Whereas, it did not refrain from suggesting other streaming platforms.
How to Watch Super Bowl 2020 in 4K HDR and What do You Need?
Super Bowl 2020 starting on Feb 2, 2020, was already a hot topic, so the availability of streaming it in 4K HDR was simply a cherry on the top. The first match will be between the Kansas City Chiefs and Francisco 49ers, and if you are wondering how to watch it, then bear with us.
Here is what you will need to watch Super Bowl 2020 in 4K HDR:
- The most vital factor is undoubtedly a TV supporting 4K HDR.
- The second thing you will need is a minimum of 25 MB per second downloading speed.
- Finally, you will also require one streaming device compatible with 4K HDR.
Fire TV Cube and Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K will be streaming through the Fox Sports app in 4K HDR. It is stated that several systems with built-in Roku OS will be streaming it as well. They are:
- Roku Premiere+
- Roku Ultra
- Roku Streaming Stick+
- Roku Premiere
However, the devices are not guaranteed to stream it in 4K HDR as stated by a Fox Sports spokesperson.
Additional Requirements with a 4K HDR TV
In case you already own an HDR TV and want any Amazon Fire TV deal, then there will be some trouble. Amazon devices supporting 4K HDR will not be available for some time. However, if you have a Prime membership, then it can still be delivered before the Super Bowl 2020. If you are dead-desperate to get one, later you can try out a few Whole Food Market, but the prices will severely differ.
Hopefully, Roku and Fox do continue their agreement, but until then this is all you can try out.
Jay Cross is a trained office.com/setup expert who works with the development team with feedback from customers to make it to expectations. He lives in New York and In addition to his work, he also writes for his personal blog.
