Key takeaways:
- Updating apps on your Fire TV Stick ensures you have access to the latest features and bug fixes
- You can update apps manually or enable automatic updates in the settings
- Installing new apps can be done directly on the device or remotely from the Amazon website
The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a popular streaming device that allows you to access a wide variety of entertainment apps right on your TV. To get the most out of your Fire TV Stick, it’s important to keep your apps up to date and install new ones that cater to your interests. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of updating and installing apps on your Amazon Fire TV Stick.
Table of Contents
Updating Apps on Your Fire TV Stick
Updating your apps is crucial to ensure you have access to the latest features, performance improvements, and bug fixes. There are two ways to update apps on your Fire TV Stick: manually and automatically.
Manual Updates
To manually update an app:
- On your Fire TV Stick’s home screen, navigate to the “Apps” section.
- Highlight the app you want to update (without opening it) and press the “Menu” button on your remote.
- Select “More Info” from the menu that appears on the right side of the screen.
- If an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” option. Select it to start the update process.
Automatic Updates
To enable automatic updates for your apps:
- Go to your Fire TV Stick’s “Settings” menu.
- Select “Applications” and then “Appstore.”
- Choose “Automatic Updates” and toggle it to “On.”
With automatic updates enabled, your Fire TV Stick will periodically check for and install updates for all your apps without any manual intervention.
Installing New Apps on Your Fire TV Stick
There are several ways to install new apps on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, depending on your preference and convenience.
Using the Fire TV Stick’s Search Function
- On your Fire TV Stick’s home screen, navigate to the “Search” option (magnifying glass icon).
- Type in the name of the app you want to install using the on-screen keyboard or voice search (if your remote has a microphone).
- Select the app from the search results and click “Get” or “Download” to start the installation process.
Browsing the Amazon Appstore
- From your Fire TV Stick’s home screen, select the “Appstore” option.
- Browse through the various categories, such as “Featured,” “Games,” or “All Categories,” to find the app you want to install.
- Select the app and click “Get” or “Download” to begin the installation.
Installing Apps Remotely from the Amazon Website
- Visit the Amazon Appstore website (www.amazon.com/appstore) on your computer or mobile device.
- Sign in to your Amazon account (make sure it’s the same account linked to your Fire TV Stick).
- Search for the app you want to install or browse through the categories.
- On the app’s detail page, select your Fire TV Stick from the “Deliver to” dropdown menu.
- Click “Get App” or “Deliver” to remotely install the app on your device.
Once an app is installed, you can access it from the “Apps” section on your Fire TV Stick’s home screen.
Managing Your Apps
To keep your Fire TV Stick running smoothly, it’s a good idea to manage your installed apps regularly. This includes organizing your apps, removing unused ones, and clearing cache and data when necessary.
Organizing Your Apps
- On your Fire TV Stick’s home screen, navigate to the “Apps” section.
- Highlight the app you want to move and press the “Menu” button on your remote.
- Select “Move” and use the directional buttons to place the app where you want it.
Uninstalling Apps
- Go to your Fire TV Stick’s “Settings” menu.
- Select “Applications” and then “Manage Installed Applications.”
- Choose the app you want to remove and select “Uninstall.”
Clearing Cache and Data
- Follow steps 1-2 from the “Uninstalling Apps” section above.
- Select the app whose cache and data you want to clear.
- Choose “Clear cache” or “Clear data” as needed.
By regularly updating and managing your apps, you can ensure that your Amazon Fire TV Stick continues to provide an optimal streaming experience.
FAQ
How do I know if an app needs to be updated?
When you highlight an app in the “Apps” section and press the “Menu” button, select “More Info.” If an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” option. Alternatively, you can check for updates in the Amazon Appstore.
Can I update multiple apps at once?
No, you can only update one app at a time. However, enabling automatic updates will ensure that all your apps are updated regularly without manual intervention.
What should I do if an app isn’t working properly after an update?
First, try clearing the app’s cache and data. If the issue persists, uninstall the app and reinstall it from the Amazon Appstore. If the problem still occurs, contact the app developer or Amazon support for further assistance.
Can I install apps that are not available in the Amazon Appstore?
Yes, you can sideload apps that are not available in the Amazon Appstore. However, this process requires enabling installation from unknown sources and using a third-party app like Downloader. Sideloading apps can be risky, as they may not be optimized for your Fire TV Stick and could potentially harm your device.
How do I find new apps to install on my Fire TV Stick?
You can browse the Amazon Appstore on your Fire TV Stick or visit the Appstore website to discover new apps. Look through the various categories, check out the featured apps, and read user reviews to find apps that suit your interests.