Amazon Firestick is a powerful, compact device that allows users to transform their standard television into a smart TV, equipped with popular streaming services, games, and apps.
With its affordability and user-friendly interface, Firestick has quickly become a household favorite. However, there may be times when you want to expand beyond the Amazon App Store and access content from other sources. This is where allowing installations from ‘Unknown Sources’ becomes essential.
Amazon, by default, restricts installations from outside the official app store as a safety measure. However, for the tech-savvy and those who wish to venture beyond, enabling this feature is crucial.
Determine the interface of your device
Before taking any steps, it’s crucial to identify which interface your Firestick device operates on since this affects the subsequent procedures.
Here’s how to determine your interface:
- If the primary navigation menu appears in the center, then you’re working with the 2020 interface.
- On the other hand, if the navigation menu is placed at the top, you’re on the 2015 interface.
Recognizing your interface is the key starting point, as further instructions will differ based on this differentiation.
How to Allow Unknown Sources on Firestick?
A hidden treasure trove in the Firestick settings is the ‘Developer options.’ To enable installations from unknown sources, you’ll need to access these options. Amazon might have made them slightly elusive, but don’t fret. We’ll guide you through every step, based on your device’s interface.
How to Allow Unknown Sources on the 2020 Interface of Firestick?
Once you’ve identified that your device operates on the 2020 interface as mentioned above, enabling installations from unknown sources becomes a streamlined process. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Access ‘Settings’: From your Fire TV home screen, navigate to and select the gear icon located on the far right, representing the ‘Settings’ option.
2. Select the Appropriate Device Option:
- If you’re using a Fire TV Stick or Cube, go for “My Fire TV”.
- For those with a Fire TV Smart TV, your choice should be “Device & Software”.
3. Enter ‘Developer Options’: In the following menu, locate and select the “Developer options”. If you’re having difficulty spotting it, you might need to consult additional resources.
4. Toggle the Relevant Setting:
- If “Apps from Unknown Sources” is displayed at the bottom, click on it and switch it ON.
- If it says “Install unknown apps”, delve into this option. Next, choose the specific app you wish to allow, such as ‘Downloader’, and authorize its ability to install APK files.
With these steps completed, your Firestick, operating on the 2020 interface, should now be set up to allow installations from unknown sources.!
How to Allow Unknown Sources on the 2015 Interface of Firestick?
Navigating the 2015 Firestick interface is straightforward once you know where to look. Here’s how you can enable installations from unknown sources:
1. Head to ‘Settings’: From your Fire TV or Fire TV Stick’s home screen, navigate and choose “Settings”.
2. Access ‘My Fire TV’ or ‘Device’: Move to the right until you locate and select “My Fire TV”. On some older models, this might be referred to as a “Device”.
3. Dive into ‘Developer Options’: Scroll down to find “Developer options”. If you can’t see this option, you might need additional instructions. Refer to the available guide to uncover this hidden menu.
4. Enable Unknown Sources: Select “Apps from Unknown Sources”. This will present you with an option to turn it “ON”.
5. Confirm Your Choice: A popup will emerge. To finalize the process, choose “Turn On”.
Now, your 2015 Firestick interface is ready to accept installations from unknown sources.
As a safety reminder, always ensure the sources you download from are reputable to protect your device!
How to Allow Unknown Sources on the 2014 Interface of Firestick?
For those utilizing the 2015 Firestick interface, enabling unknown sources is a straightforward process. Let’s walk through the steps:
1. Navigate to ‘Settings’: Starting from your Fire TV or Fire TV Stick’s home screen, scroll down until you find the “Settings” option.
2. Proceed to ‘System’: Scroll to the right until “System” becomes visible and then select it.
3. Access ‘Developer Options’: From there, continue scrolling downwards until you encounter “Developer Options”. Select this option.
4. Activate Unknown Sources: Inside the “Developer Options”, you’ll find the “Apps from Unknown Sources” setting. Select it, turning the option to “ON”.
5. Confirm Activation: Upon choosing to enable unknown sources, a popup message will surface. Simply select “OK” to confirm your choice.
With these steps completed, your Firestick on the 2015 interface is now configured to allow installations from unknown sources!
How to Allow Unknown Sources on Android?
If you’re using an Android device like the NVIDIA Shield, Chromecast, or Android TV Boxes, here’s how you can allow installations from unknown sources:
1. Install the Downloader App: Begin by installing the Downloader App from the Google Play Store if it’s not already on your device.
2. Open Settings: From the home screen of your Android TV device, access “Settings”.
3. Go to ‘System’: Find and click on the “System” option.
4. Access ‘About’: Inside the System menu, select “About”.
5. Enable Developer Options: Tap on “Android TV OS build” roughly 7 times. After a few taps, a message will pop up saying that Developer Options have been enabled, accompanied by a notification stating, “You are now a developer!”
6. Navigate Back to Apps: Use the back button on your remote to revert to the previous menu until you spot the “Apps” setting. Click on it.
7. Access ‘Security & Restrictions’: Within the Apps section, locate and select “Security & Restrictions”.
8. Opt for ‘Unknown Sources’: Click on the “Unknown sources” option.
9. Enable Unknown Sources for Downloader: Turn on the option for unknown sources specifically for the Downloader app.
And there you have it! Your Android device is now set up to allow installations from unknown sources.
FAQs
What is Developer options for Fire TV devices?
The Developer Options in Fire TV devices is a specialized setting designed to facilitate the installation of third-party applications from sources beyond the Amazon-approved app store.
Can I install apps from unknown sources on a 4K max Firestick?
Yes, the process to enable installations from unknown sources on a 4K max Firestick follows the same steps as those mentioned for the 2020 interface.
Is allowing unknown Sources on Firestick legal?
Yes, enabling the “Unknown Sources” option on Firestick and Android devices is completely legal. However, users should be cautious about what they install, as not all third-party apps will have undergone rigorous safety checks. Thus, it’s imperative to engage only with public domain content or authorized IPTV providers to maintain compliance with the law.
Is allowing unknown Sources safe?
While enabling this option is safe, the apps you choose to install might not be. It’s advisable always to source apps from reputable developers and sites. Ensure you have reliable anti-virus software and keep your Firestick’s software updated.
Final Word
Amazon’s Firestick is a powerful tool, but sometimes its default settings can feel restrictive. Allowing installations from unknown sources can expand its utility. However, with greater freedom comes increased responsibility. Always be vigilant about the sources you trust and ensure your device’s security is a top priority. Safe streaming!