Roku is not bricking devices. It is pushing the terms page to the TV and not moving forward until you say ok. You usually click them without even noticing during the setup process for an app or program. Try and avoid the terms with any set-up wizard. Guess what? You will not be able to start using the app or program that you are trying to install. Bricking a device is actively making it unusable going forward. If Roku gave you the choice to say no and then poof your Roku Ultra would never turn on again this would be bricking.
The average user is getting way too upset about the Roku terms issue. The idea that Roku is requiring people to agree to the terms before moving forward is not novel. And I expect to start seeing it a lot more often. And so should you. Roku is just the first. You will see this with Android TV, Fire TV, and most TV operating systems. And unless people plan to opt out of the modern world you may as well get used to it. It’s the cost of doing business with modern companies.
I’m not justifying it. I’m just telling you how it is. And when it comes down to it, what exactly do you think you are going to sue Roku over? A slow device? Losing access to an app? Unless these things are injuring or killing people is there a really good reason to bring a lawsuit?
The rules they are putting in place are aimed much more at app developers. Roku probably wants to make it harder for partners to sue over the way business will be done over the next few years when it comes to program placement, advertising, and other revenue-sensitive features.
If there were some horrible situation where a Roku or a Roku-powered TV caused a death or serious property damage/injury there would be an uproar that would cut through an agreement. Bet on it. That’s the way things work.
