Not open source, but I use the Google TV chromecast in “apps only” mode.
Its very minimal but you still get a single picture of whatever show is being promoted that week. No other intrusive adds have been added {yet}.
Comment on Roku explores taking over HDMI feeds with ads
acr515@lemmy.world 5 months ago
Is there some open-source replacement for Roku? All I really use it for is a portal to my streaming services that’s easy to navigate with a remote. I’ve noticed my Roku become increasingly more overrun with ads ever since I started using it 4-5 years ago to my dismay, and it’s obviously not stopping any time soon. I’m vaguely aware of Plex but I have no clue where to start with setting it up or if it would even meet my needs
GekkoState@lemmings.world 5 months ago
ClumsyTomato@lemmy.sdf.org 5 months ago
Even better, install “Projectivity launcher” on your Chromecast.
I have it configured to only show the buttons for the 4 apps I use. Not a single advertisement on the main screen, and all is clean and fast.
MIDItheKID@lemmy.world 5 months ago
Raspberry Pi and Kodi?
Aceticon@lemmy.world 5 months ago
You can even install Kodi on a chinese Android TV box that you can get for $20 from AliExpress. (Just download the APK for the latest Kodi from their site as the Google Play version is pretty old).
You do need to sail the high seas to put together a collection or get some kind of piraty Add-On with On-Demand functionality (VPN recommended).
MIDItheKID@lemmy.world 5 months ago
I think you can install all the normal streaming apps on Kodi as well. It definitely takes more know-how than using something like a Roku or smart TV, but FOSS be like that sometimes.
melpomenesclevage@lemm.ee 5 months ago
Start with a VPN, then sail the high seas.
acr515@lemmy.world 5 months ago
That’s not really what I asked- I already have the streaming services through which to watch content, I just want a better “shell” from which to access them that isn’t Roku
melpomenesclevage@lemm.ee 5 months ago
All my experience with Plex and the like is nautical, and relies on local stuff, so I’m afraid I can’t help with what’s best for streaming. Apologies for misunderstanding.