Have you noticed your Roku is blinking purple light when you try to turn it on? That puzzling purple blink is your Roku trying to communicate an issue.
Often, the blinking means the Roku is attempting a software update but getting stalled. It could also indicate a temporary glitch with the hardware, power, or connected devices.
What does it mean when Roku is blinking purple?
Here is what this blinking light is trying to tell you:
1. Normal startup process
The blinking purple light is hardwired into the device to illuminate during boot-up as part of the normal power-on sequence.
It does not signify any issue but rather that the system is initializing and progressing through startup as intended.
2. Software update ready
Roku will blink when it detects new software or firmware updates from the company servers that are available and ready for download.
This tells you an update awaits installation and will continue blinking at set intervals until you initiate the update process.
3. During software installation
A similar flashing purple light on Roku arises when the software update download starts and the installation begins.
The blinking persists until installation is finished.
3. External connectivity issues
Roku requires constant communication with the HD television. Any shorts, damage, or compatibility issues with HDMI ports, cables, TV inputs, or other devices can prevent proper connectivity.
The blinking occurs because communication gets disrupted between devices.
4. Insufficient power supply
Attempting to power the gadget via low-voltage sources often provides power but not enough amperage to fully turn it on.
These include weak USB ports, faulty electrical sockets, inadequate cables, or subpar AC adapters.
Low voltage brings on the blinking light when the device attempts to boot up yet fails to completely boot up.
5. Corrupted system files
Roku’s core functionality relies on key software and system files driving the background processes.
If these become corrupted or damaged due to age, errors, malware, or faulty updates, core operations fail, prompting the blinking light.
6. Faulty screensaver settings
When your Roku blinks purple light, it could be from screensaver settings like delay times and start times that overlap.
This throws in an error, resulting in the warning light.
7. Corrupted micro SD card
As an auxiliary storage device, issues with inserted Micro SD cards stall system processes by serving unreadable data.
An SD card plagued by physical damage, file errors, or disconnects causes the Roku to blink unsuccessfully, awaiting usable data from the card before the software loads fully.
Troubleshooting tips when Roku is blinking purple light
Below is how to fix the blinking light on Roku:
1. Identify the cause of blinking
If blinking occurs during start-up or software update, no action is needed. This is a normal operation and resolves independently
2. Restart Roku
Restarting clears temporary glitches. To restart your Roku:
- Press and hold the power button.
- Unplug the power cable from the back of the Roku unit.
- Leave unplugged for 60 seconds to discharge the components.
- Reconnect the power cable firmly into the Roku and wall outlet.
- Power on the Roku again with either the remote or the TV power button.
3. Check for software updates
- From the Home screen, scroll down to Settings > System.
- Select System Update.
- Choose Check Now to manually check if any updates are available.
- If an update is found, the system will do an update automatically.
Important: To download an update, you must have access to a good Wi-Fi connection with speeds above 2mbps. If you are using a mobile hotspot, ensure you have over 1GB of data balance.
4. Inspect cables, ports, and power sources
- Check that all cables connecting to the Roku and TV are undamaged, fully inserted, and in the correct ports
- Try using different cables in case the current ones are faulty
- For power, use the original Roku AC adapter rather than lower voltage sources
Tip: The Roku requires a sustained power input of 12V with at least 1500mA capacity. So, if you do not have the original adapter, buy another with these exact specs.
5. Remove the micro SD card
- Remove the HDMI cable from the Roku device
- Locate the micro SD card slot above or below the HDMI port
- Gently push the SD card to eject it from the device
- Pull the microchip out
- Plug the Roku into power and reinsert the HDMI cable to check if the purple light persists.
If it persists, it means the micro SD isn’t the problem, so reinsert it. If it stops, your SD card is corrupt and needs a replacement.
6. Disable screensavers
- Press Home and go to Settings
- Select Theme > Screensavers
- Click Change wait time, then tap Disable Screensaver
7. Factory reset the Roku
Important: Before the reset, make note of any imported channels, login credentials, or customizations you want to save to simplify setup later. A reset will remove all of this data.
- Navigate to Settings from the Home screen
- Select System, then choose Factory Reset and confirm. Follow any on-screen prompts.
Alternatively, locate the pinhole RESET button on the back of the unit. Press and hold for 10+ seconds using a paperclip until the unit shuts off.
After the reset completes and the Roku restarts, you’ll need to run through the initial device setup, including:
- Connecting to a WiFi network
- Linking your Roku account
- Adding desired streaming channels and media apps
- Adjusting preferences and settings to personal needs
When to get professional help if Roku is blinking purple light
We recommend seeking professional assistance if:
- Your Roku is still under warranty. You will be offered free repair services for issues emerging within the coverage period.
- You have carefully tried every troubleshooting tip in this guide, but the purple blinking persists. The problem may require more advanced technical expertise at this point.
- You do not have the time or patience to continue troubleshooting on your own. Hiring a professional can save you effort.