This guide will show you how to jailbreak your FireStick and install the apps that are not yet available on the Amazon App Store.
The method works with all models, including FireStick HD, Lite, 4K, 4K Max, Fire TV, and Fire TV Cube.
Quick note: there isn’t a technical thing called “jailbreaking a FireStick.” We’re using the term because it’s what most people search for. In practice, what folks mean is installing apps that aren’t in the Amazon Appstore—basically the same as sideloading on Android.
This isn’t like an iPhone jailbreak. You’re just changing a couple of settings to allow installs from outside the Amazon Appstore.
We’ll keep using the word “jailbreak” in this guide for familiarity, but know that we’re simply talking about sideloading—not actual jailbreaking.
What to Expect from This Guide?
- Step-by-Step Guide: Simple, detailed instructions to sideload apps on your FireStick.
- Visual Aids: Helpful screenshots to walk you through each step.
- Required Apps & Tools: Everything you need, including the Downloader app.
- Safety Tips: Best Practices to Keep the Process Safe.
- Beginner-Friendly: Clear explanations to avoid any confusion.
- Legal Disclaimer: A reminder of the potential risks and legal considerations.
What is Jailbreaking?
Jailbreaking refers to the process of unlocking a Fire TV’s restrictions on third-party app installation, allowing you to install apps that aren’t offered through the Amazon App Store. This gives users access to a broader range of streaming options which is not available otherwise.
However, jailbreaking a FireStick isn’t the same as jailbreaking an iPhone or rooting an Android device.
Jailbreaking a mobile is a complicated and risky process. On the other hand, jailbreaking a FireStick is straightforward and completely risk-free.
Feature/Aspect | FireStick | Mobile |
---|---|---|
Definition | Installing third-party apps not available on the Amazon App Store | Removing manufacturer restrictions for full system control |
Process | Simple: Enable unknown sources and sideload APKs using Downloader | Complex: Requires rooting/jailbreaking tools and firmware modifications |
Risk Level | None (if using trusted apps) | High (can brick the device or cause instability) |
Legal Status | Legal (if not used for piracy) | Legal, but may violate terms of service |
Device Warranty | Not voided | Often voided |
System Access | No root or deep system access | Full root access to system files and features |
Security Risks | Minimal to none | High (can expose system vulnerabilities) |
Purpose | To stream without restrictions | To customize OS, install mods, remove bloatware |
Reversibility | Easy (fully reversible, just uninstall sideloaded apps) | Difficult (may require flashing stock firmware) |
Tools Used | Downloader | Magisk, TWRP, SuperSU (Android); Checkra1n, unc0ver (iOS) |
Popular Among | Streamers and cord-cutters | Advanced users, modders, developers |
Why Do You Jailbreak FireStick?
- Access More Apps – Install third-party apps that are not yet available on the Amazon App Store.
- Enhance Your Streaming Experience – Customize your FireStick with better media players and streaming tools.
- Take Full Control of Your Device — You can sideload better streaming apps on FireStick, without compromising warranty.
Is It Safe & Legal?
Jailbreaking FireStick is both SAFE and LEGAL as long as you are not streaming any copyrighted content.
As already discussed, it is safe because you are not changing any system-level files (as is the case with jailbreaking and rooting).
It is legal because you own the device, and you are simply modifying the settings that Amazon itself provides. It does not void your device’s warranty.
However, streaming pirated or copyrighted content is not a legal activity. FireStickTricks.com does not support piracy. We recommend watching public domain movies and shows to avoid any legal trouble.
How to Jailbreak FireStick
Legal Disclaimer: This tutorial is purely educational. FireStickTricks.com doesn’t own, host, operate, resell, or distribute any streaming apps, addons, websites, IPTV or services. The page contains some unverified services, and we are not certain whether they hold legal licenses to distribute the content. FireStickTricks.com does not verify the legality of each app/service in all regions. Do your due diligence if you use any of the unverified apps/services, and stream only content that is available in the public domain. The end-user shall be solely responsible for the media accessed.
The following steps will show you how to sideload apps on the Amazon FireStick easily.
For FireStick Users
ISPs, hackers, and other third-party entities worldwide may monitor your online activities. For security, privacy, and smooth streaming, it is recommended to use a reliable VPN for FireStick. Your IP address is visible to sites you visit.
I recommend ExpressVPN, a fast and secure VPN in the industry. It is very easy to install on any device, including an Amazon Fire TV Stick. Also, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like their service, you can always ask for a refund. ExpressVPN also has a special deal where you can get 4 months free and save 61% on the 2-year plan.
Read: How to Install and Use the Best VPN for FireStick
Step 1: Install APK Downloader on FireStick
The name of the app is Downloader, and it can be found on the Amazon Appstore.
The Downloader app is used to download third-party apps for streaming movies, shows, sports, live TV, and more.
1. Go to the home screen of your Amazon Fire TV Stick and select Find in the middle bar, followed by Search.
2. Type and click Downloader in the search suggestions.
3. Click the Downloader app tile.
5. Click Get or Download.
Step 2: Allow Unknown Sources
This is the ONLY setting you will change in the entire jailbreaking process.
After changing this setting, the Downloader app can install third-party apps.
1. Select Settings on the FireStick home screen.
2. Click My Fire TV.
3. Click Developer options.
Now, select Fire TV Stick and click it 7 times to enable Developer Options. If you’re still not sure how to do it, here’s a step-by-step guide to enable developer options.
4. Click on Install Unknown Apps.
You will see one of the following two options depending on your FireStick device version:
- Option 1 (new devices) - Install Unknown Apps: Click it and proceed to the next step to enable Downloader.
- Option 2 (old devices) - Apps from Unknown Sources: Click this option and then click Turn On on the following prompt. Skip the next step.
5. Click Downloader and turn it ON.
Step 3: Jailbreak Firestick
The only step remaining is to install your preferred third-party apps and stream unlimited content.
One of the most popular apps for jailbroken FireStick is Kodi. This media application provides access to tons of content, including movies and TV shows, sports, live TV channels, kids’ content, and more.
All you need is the right Kodi Addons and Builds.
We will jailbreak FireStick with Kodi using the Downloader app you have downloaded from the Amazon App Store. This method is called sideloading. Here are the steps:
1. Open the Downloader app and click the URL text box as highlighted in the image below.
2. When this window is displayed, enter the Kodi APK URL (https://kodi.tv/download) and click Go.
3. Wait for the Downloader app to download the Kodi 21.2 Omega APK file.
4. Once the APK file is downloaded, the Downloader app will prompt you to install the Kodi app. Click Install.
5. Wait for the Kodi app to install.
6. Click OPEN to launch the app.
7. If you open Kodi for the first time, it will typically take a minute to upload the files. This is what the Kodi home screen looks.
Congratulations! You have jailbroken your FireStick and sideloaded your first third-party app.
How to Use Jailbroken FireStick
A quick reminder: your internet provider and many websites/apps can see your IP address and some details about your connection. Using a VPN encrypts your traffic and masks your IP, which helps protect your privacy while streaming.
I recommend ExpressVPN. It’s a reputable VPN with strong encryption and fast connections, and it’s straightforward to install on Fire TV/FireStick and other devices.
Step 1: Subscribe to ExpressVPN HERE. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can use it free for the first 30 days, and if you are not satisfied with the performance (which is highly unlikely), you can ask for a full refund.
Step 2: Power ON your Fire TV Stick and go to Find, followed by the Search option.
Step 3: Now type “Expressvpn” (without quotes) in the search bar and select ExpressVPN when it appears in the search results.
Step 4: Click Download to install the ExpressVPN app on Fire TV / Stick.
Step 5: Open the app and enter the login credentials you created while buying the ExpressVPN subscription. Click Sign in.
Step 6: Click the Power icon to connect to a VPN server. That’s all. Your connection is now secure with the fastest and best VPN for FireStick.
Even though you have installed Kodi, it is just the start. We must now learn to use Kodi to stream movies, shows, live TV, and more.
What you need to do now is install Kodi add-ons or builds.
Kodi Addons
Kodi is just a media player that doesn’t host any content. To access content on the application, you need special plugins called addons. The Kodi addons source content from the internet and deliver it to the app for streaming.
Kodi addons come in two types: official and unofficial. Verified creators develop official addons and are available through the official Kodi repository, ensuring reliability and compliance with Kodi’s standards.
On the other hand, unofficial addons are created by unverified developers. They are hosted in unofficial repositories, and their content sources are unverified.
There are dozens of Kodi addons, but only a few offer reliable, high-quality streaming. Install these addons to get the most out of your Kodi app.
Kodi Builds
Kodi addons are great, but you may need multiple addons for all your streaming needs. Installing many addons one by one can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
What if you could install a special plugin with pre-installed add-ons and a customized layout that would make Kodi look better?
A Kodi Build is a prepackaged plugin with preinstalled addons, a custom skin, and a theme. It also contains customer settings to enhance your Kodi streaming experience.
When you install a Kodi build, you replace the dull Kodi skin (background) with a new and intuitive interface, making navigation easier and enjoyable. You make your Kodi app personal and more appealing.
How to Get a New App Store for FireStick
Now that you have unlocked restrictions on your Fire TV Stick, you can start streaming. But you can still do a lot more with it.
Your FireStick has the official Amazon App Store, which offers hundreds of apps. However, the Amazon Store does not include many cool apps to enhance your FireStick experience.
You can install a third-party app store called Aptoide TV on your FireStick device. Aptoide TV features a host of incredible apps that you won’t find on the Amazon App Store.
Aptoide TV is a well-thought-out and professionally designed app store that lets you quickly find and install various third-party apps, including streaming, maintenance, and utility apps.
I have provided quick steps to install Aptoide on your FireStick or FireStick 4 K. For detailed instructions, please read our guide to installing and using Aptoide TV on FireStick.
1. Open the Downloader app. Enter the Aptoide APK URL (example below) and click ‘Go’.
2. Choose Open when the app has been installed.
3. This is the home screen of the Aptoide TV on Fire TV Stick. You can start looking up the apps you want to install.
Wrapping Up
This guide shows how to jailbreak FireStick. The jailbreak process involves installing third-party apps not available in the Amazon App Store. These apps unlock FireStick’s full potential as a streaming device, allowing you to stream movies, shows, live TV, kids’ content, adult content, and sports.
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After I have jail broke my fire stick when I enter a side load code I get a storage permission required to store a file. What am I doing wrong?
Hi Kev, You need to enable storage permissions for the app you’re using to sideload. Go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications, select the app, and make sure Permissions are allowed. If the issue persists, try restarting your Firestick and re-entering the code. Let me know if you need further help!
Hi I cannot open my firestick account because someone else has my account although I signed up it says cannot use
Hi Stacey, Please contact Amazon Customer Support for assistance with your account issue. They will be able to help you regain access. You can refer to this guide: https://www.firesticktricks.com/amazon-firestick-customer-service.html
My firestick doesn’t have the “Developer options” setting? Is this because it is the “Lite” version?
Thanks
Hi KK, Developer Options are hidden by default on Firestick devices. If you want to enable them, this guide explains the process: https://www.firesticktricks.com/developer-options-firestick.html. Let me know if you have any questions!