“Roku’s rules got updated. New channels and any updates get judged by the new rules. If your channel is already live, you’ll face the new rules the next time you change anything.”
Branding & Monetizing Your Roku Channel
Now that your channel has multiple videos and categories, it’s time to make it look professional and start preparing for monetization. A strong brand presence makes your channel stand out in Roku search results and encourages viewers to return.
1️⃣ Branding Your Roku Channel
Branding is more than just a logo — it’s about creating a consistent look and feel across your channel that makes it memorable.
🔹 Channel Logo
- Roku requires a square image (min. 512×512 px)
- Format: PNG with transparent background if possible
- Create in Artistly for a unique, high-quality design
🔹 Splash Screen (Optional but Recommended)
- Appears when viewers open your channel
- 1920×1080 px (JPG or PNG)
- Keep it simple — usually your logo on a branded background
🔹 Background Image
- Displayed behind menus and category listings
- 1920×1080 px (JPG or PNG)
- Make sure text remains readable — avoid overly busy designs
🔹 Thumbnail Style
- Keep all video thumbnails consistent in style
- Example: All have your logo in one corner, consistent font for titles
2️⃣ Updating Branding in Roku Direct Publisher
- Log in to Roku Developer Dashboard
- Select your channel
- Go to Branding
- Upload your:
- Channel logo
- Splash screen
- Background image
- Save changes and preview
Tip: Keep your branding simple and professional — it should work well on TVs of all sizes.
3️⃣ Preparing for Monetization
Roku allows multiple monetization methods. The easiest way to start is with their built-in ad network.
🔹 Roku Ad Framework
- Free to join for approved channels
- You earn revenue every time ads are shown to your viewers
- Sign up through your Roku Developer Dashboard under Monetization
🔹 Affiliate & Product Promotions
- Overlay QR codes in your videos using VideoExpress
- Link to affiliate offers, your products, or services
- Viewers scan the code with their phone to visit your offer page
🔹 Sponsored Content
- Partner with brands or creators to feature their videos
- Charge a flat fee or revenue share
4️⃣ Setting Up Monetization in Roku
- In your Roku Developer Dashboard, go to your channel
- Select Monetization
- Enable Video Ads
- Fill in payment and tax details so Roku can send you revenue
- Optional: Link a third-party ad network if you have one
5️⃣ Testing Your Channel Branding & Monetization
- Preview your channel in Roku to check your new branding
- Play videos and ensure they display well with your branding
- Check if ads are being served once monetization is enabled
✅ Homework Before Lesson 5
- Create and upload a channel logo, splash screen, and background image
- Ensure all video thumbnails match your branding style
- Enable monetization in your Roku Developer Dashboard
- Consider adding affiliate QR codes to at least one video
In Lesson 5, we’ll focus on:
- Promoting your Roku channel
- Optimizing for Roku Search (RSO)
- Driving traffic from your website and social media
