Artist withdraws Roku aquarium screensaver licence over Fox ownership

Artist Jim Sachs has withdrawn the licence for Roku’s Aquatic Life screensaver after Fox completed its acquisition of Roku, saying he does not want his work associated with Fox. The change, effective 1 December, will end a decade-long feature valued by some users for its calm, advert-free display.

Sachs licensed the Marine Aquarium animation to Roku through Prolific Publishing, with the agreement renewable each October and cancellable by either side. He said the exclusive deal paid $80,000 a year; Roku will replace the screensaver with Roku City, which includes subtle adverts. The licence was Sachs’ main source of income, and although Roku has asked him to restore it, he says he hopes another streaming service may offer the animation.