Artist Jim Sachs is terminating a decade-long licensing deal with Roku, citing a refusal to be part of the 'Fox world' following the company's $22 billion acquisition. This decision effectively removes the popular Marine Aquarium screensaver from the streaming platform's interface. Sachs expressed that his ideological opposition to the new ownership makes continuing the partnership impossible. The artist had provided the calming underwater visuals for years, but the shift in corporate control has prompted this sudden and definitive end to their long-standing professional relationship.
The end of a decade-long licensing agreement
The Marine Aquarium animation, known to users as the Aquatic Life screensaver, will cease availability on Roku platforms at the end of November. For 10 years, Roku has licensed the animation from artist Jim Sachs through Prolific Publishing. Sachs, the copyright holder and founder of SereneScreen, confirmed that the licensing agreement is subject to annual renewal every October and can be terminated by either party for any reason.
The decision to terminate the partnership was made immediately after Sachs learned of the Fox acquisition of Roku. While Roku has reportedly asked to restore the license, Sachs has maintained his stance. The removal marks a significant shift for users who preferred the ad-free, relaxing nature of the animation over the standard Roku City screensaver, which contains embedded advertisements.
Impact on Roku user experience
Users receiving the service alert will find their devices automatically switching to the Roku City screensaver. This transition has drawn criticism from long-term users on platforms like Reddit, who noted that the loss of the Aquatic Life screensaver reduces the variety of non-sponsored themes available on the platform.
For many, the screensaver served a purpose beyond mere aesthetics. One Reddit user described how the animation provided a grounding effect during moments of ADHD-related overdrive, allowing them to focus and relax. The loss of such a tool has left many fans feeling "gutted," particularly as users have noted that Roku has not added new themes in years, opting instead for sponsored content and increasing the frequency of advertisements.
Financial implications for the creator
The termination of the Roku contract carries significant financial weight for Jim Sachs, as the licensing deal served as his primary source of income. According to Sachs, the agreement provided either $80,000 per year for exclusive rights to all set-top devices or $60,000 per year for non-exclusive rights. Roku has historically opted for the exclusive $80,000 annual arrangement.
Sachs noted that while his business needs are relatively small—noting that a high property tax bill is his only significant expense—the loss of this revenue will prevent the commencement of several planned projects. Although the Marine Aquarium remains available for purchase on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, Sachs indicated that sales for the computer-based versions are low compared to the Roku licensing revenue.
Ideological motivations behind the decision
Sachs cited a fundamental disagreement with the corporate philosophy of Fox as the primary reason for ending the deal. He expressed a desire to prevent his artwork from being used to support a platform owned by a company whose news and entertainment style he finds objectionable. "I can’t be part of the Fox world," Sachs told Ars Technica, adding that he views the company's business model as a venue for spreading a philosophy he considers repugnant.
Despite the financial loss, Sachs stated he has "no delusions" regarding the impact his decision will have on the larger corporation, which recently closed its $22 billion acquisition of Roku. However, he remains open to restoring the license if the ownership structure or business model were to change significantly. He expressed that he would be happy to restore the license even for free if Fox were to reverse its "rage-based business model" and take responsibility for the harm it has caused. In the meantime, Sachs remains hopeful that another streaming company might seek to license the Marine Aquarium animation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I still find the Marine Aquarium animation?
The screensaver is still available for purchase on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms.
What will replace the screensaver on my Roku?
Roku will automatically switch affected devices to the Roku City screensaver.