Roku to Replace Aquatic Life Screensaver With Roku City on Dec. 1

Roku is retiring its aquarium-themed screensaver in favor of Roku City, whose skyline includes sponsored digital billboards. Third-party aquarium wallpaper apps will remain an option.

4 Nov 2026

Roku plans to discontinue its Aquatic Life screensaver on Dec. 1, replacing the animated aquarium with Roku City, the streaming platform’s signature purple skyline. The screensaver features rotating digital billboards with brand sponsorships and pop-culture references.

Roku users who still want an aquarium display can choose from third-party wallpaper apps. However, those who stick with the screensavers provided by Roku will no longer have the fish-filled option and will instead see Roku City, which includes advertising.

CNET Senior Editor Ty Pendlebury said the change could help Roku generate revenue or increase engagement through Roku City. A Roku representative did not immediately respond to CNET’s request for comment.

A YouTube version of the Aquatic Life screensaver is still available, though the report notes that it may remain online only as long as Roku chooses to keep it there.

Sources: CNET.