Roku users can unlock hundreds of free shows and movies using little-known “secret” channels – but find them first

ROKU users have an endless stream of ways to unlock free content, but the list keeps growing with the addition of "secret" channels.

Users traditionally add channels to their accounts through Roku's official channel store, but they may be missing out.

"Secret" or private channels are technically part of the channel store - just not displayed publicly.

This means they don't appear when searching the store, nor can they be found on Roku's website.

Some private channels are beta versions that are not ready for official release.

Others may be unofficial, third-party channels for websites and other services.

Whatever the case, there is a wealth of content to explore in Roku's shadowy corners.

You can start by searching online to find channels you want to add.

Look for a channel code, which will be in the form of a hyperlink

"https://owner.roku.com/add/CODE."

This address, known as an "invitation code," can be entered on Roku's website.

As you can't search for private channels directly on your Roku device, they must be added through your web browser.

Sign into your account on Roku's website and navigate to the Account page.

Click "Add a Channel" and type the private channel's code into the box.

Finish by selecting "Add Channel," which will queue it for installation on your Roku device.

The channel should appear within 24 hours after the device checks for updates. However, there is a way to speed up the process.

By opening the Settings screen and clicking "System," followed by "System update," you can force the device to check for updates.

This will prompt your Roku to download any new channels you've added.

Once the channel is installed, it will appear next to others you've downloaded on the home screen.

There are hundreds of channels to sort through, but one is leagues above the rest.

Most insiders agree Nowhere TV tops the list of private channels.

It packages content from major outlets like BBC, CNN, and more all in one place.

Best of all, the package is entirely free - no subscriptions are needed.

The Roku Channel – what you need to know

Here's the lowdown...

The Roku Channel is a streaming app that's available on a range of devices.

It offers more than 400 live TV channels.

And it promises over 80,000 movies and TV shows on an on-demand basis.

Roku says that the app is available on:

• Roku streaming devices
• Compatible Samsung Smart TVs
• Compatible Amazon Fire TV devices
• TheRokuChannel.com website
• Roku mobile apps (iOS and Android)

Roku notes that the app is only available in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It's also available in Mexico, but only on Roku devices.