This post will show you how to update FireStick to the latest version. The method works for all Amazon Fire TV devices, including Fire TV Cube, FireStick Lite, New FireStick 4K, New FireStick 4K Max, and FireStick 4K. I’ll also cover why you should update your device, some FAQs, and more.
FireStick and Fire TV devices run on the operating system called FireOS. Amazon rolls out OS updates from time to time. The updates aim to provide bug fixes and performance and cosmetic enhancements.
There are two types of updates – major and minor. A major update may result in a significant change in how you interact with the device. For instance, the last major update in 2020 completely overhauled the FireStick interface.
On the other hand, a minor update may bring about no apparent changes. Such updates are usually meant for insignificant backend tweaks that largely do not affect your experience.
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Read: How to Install and Use Best VPN for FireStick
When and Why You Should Update Your FireStick
Keeping your Fire TV devices updated is the best way to ensure smooth and optimal performance. Generally, FireStick developers release an update every few days or weeks.
When You Should Update Your FireStick
There’s no rule of thumb regarding when you should update your FireStick. Usually, experts recommend installing a new update as soon as it rolls out. However, even I don’t remember checking for updates frequently. I believe once a week is good enough.
Thankfully, most updates get downloaded and installed automatically whenever you restart the device. However, some updates may require manual installation. Therefore, it is a good idea to visit the update section occasionally. I will show you how later in the post.
Why You Should Update Your FireStick
Here are some reasons to update your device regularly:
- New OS updates usually help improve performance. Therefore, you’re likely to experience fewer lags and app freezes.
- May fix app crashing issues.
- It may fix known bugs and glitches.
- It may minimize security and privacy risks. Developers regularly release updates to fix security loopholes within the system.
- Increases features and functionalities of the devices.
In other words, every new FireOS version is better than the old. It will ensure optimal performance and minimize issues with your streaming device. Therefore, you must install a new Fire TV update as early as possible.
Things to Know Before Updating Your FireStick
Updating your FireStick is easy. However, there are a few things you would want to keep in mind.
Have a Stable Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is required to avoid interruptions during the update. A fast connection also means your device updates faster.
Never Unplug FireStick During The Update
Ideally, you should never unplug a FireStick when it’s updating. Doing so may cause firmware or hardware damage to the device.
Also, if the Fire TV gets frozen or becomes unresponsive while updating, follow these steps to restart it:
- Press and hold the Select and Play/Pause buttons on the Fire TV remote.
- Within 5 to 7 seconds, your streaming device will restart.
Close Apps Before Installing Updates
Even though not mandatory, I recommend closing all the apps that are running in the background before installing OS updates on your Amazon Fire TV Stick,
To do that, you can restart your Fire TV by going to Settings, selecting My Fire TV, and then clicking the Restart button.
You can also do a quick reboot by unplugging the device from its power source, waiting several seconds, and plugging it back in. Or you can use a Task Killer to close all the FireStick apps simultaneously.
That’s everything you need to know before updating your Amazon Fire TV OS.
How to Update Amazon FireStick to the Latest Version
Here is how you can update your FireStick:
1. Navigate to Settings, the tab on the far right at the top of the screen.
2. Click My Fire TV.
3. On the next page, select About.
4. Click Check for Updates.
Note: If you don’t see the Check for Updates option, jump to the next step.
5. Scroll down and click on Install Update.
Note: If you don’t see the Install Update option, your device is up to date.
After clicking on the Install Update button, the OS will start updating. Your Fire Stick will ask you not to turn off power to it during the installation process.
Once the installation is complete, the device will reboot automatically.
How to Check FireStick OS Version
To find out the latest released FireOS version for your device, please visit the official Amazon software update web page.
You can check the FireStick OS version of your device to make sure you have the latest update. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the Settings option from the FireStick home screen.
2. Open My Fire TV.
3. On the next screen, click About.
4. On the right side of your screen, you’ll see information about your device. The current Software Version is just below the Amazon Account heading.
Apart from the Software Version of your Amazon FireStick, you can see its Name, Storage Capacity, the associated Amazon Account, Serial Number, Current Date and Time, and more.
FAQ’s
Here are some FAQs regarding Fire TVs and their updates
Will jailbreaking my FireStick affect new updates?
Fortunately, jailbreaking your FireStick won’t affect new updates. You can easily install new OS versions on jailbroken Fire TVs using the same methods and steps. Moreover, your content, settings, apps, and more remain the same even on jailbroken devices.
What should I do if my FireStick update fails or gets stuck?
It’s not uncommon for smart devices to lag, glitch, or get stuck. It usually happens due to bugs, storage issues, network problems, or other general causes. Luckily, Amazon provides complete troubleshooting steps for devices. Follow these steps to revive a problematic FireStick.
- Reset your network connection once and check whether your Fire TV is connected to the appropriate Wi-Fi.
- Remove the plug from the power source and wait for a few seconds. Then, plug the socket back in.
- Lastly, access the About section and check the Storage Capacity. You need at least 500 MB of space for a new update.
Final Words
It is best to update FireStick to the latest version. The updates come with bug fixes and performance enhancements. Some updates are instantly noticeable, while most change the OS only in the background. Usually, the updates get installed automatically. Those that require manual intervention take only 2-3 minutes.
Related:
- How to Update Kodi on FireStick
- Why is my Internet & Download Speed so Slow?
- How to Fix FireStick Connected with Problems
- How to Jailbreak FireStick
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VINCE ELLIS says
I open my Cinema App and I will click on a movie that I’m interested in and it might have say 20 streams. Every Stream link that I click on has a totally different movie than that of what I want to see. How do I fix this problem ??
Max says
Hi Vince. Here is our guide on Cinema HD APK problems and solutions.