Before I buy another Roku, are there any options for a streaming box/stick that run FOSS? A foss derivitive of android TV would be nice if that exists, ideally preloaded on an inexpensive and compact piece of hardware.
Firestick can run FOSS apps. You first turn off unknown sources blocking, and then use Downloader to sideload FOSS apps like Kodi.
Another option is you can buy a thin client with an HDMI port for like $100, velcro it to the back of your TV, and install a light linux distro on it. Or you could try doing it with a raspberry pi, or similar low powered device.
So if I get a Firestick, I can connect it to a machine running Linux and sideload apps like that? (Sorry if it’s a dumb question, I’ve never used a Firestick but I’ve been contemplating ways to mirror content from a Linux PC to my smart TV)
No, you turn off apps from unknown sources, then you download Downloader. You can then use Downloader to download apps from any internet url. You can do this all from the Firestick’s home screen.
Here is a sample tutorial:
https://www.firesticktricks.com/sideload-apps-on-firestick.html
Jellyfin seems to be what you are looking for.
LibreELEC or something running Kodi is FOSS. (and works quite well) You can look at their website for hardware recommendations.
The old version of the ONN 4k streaming box has lineage support :D
Apart from binary blobs this should be as foss as it gets.
