Fire Stick updates happen automatically, but you can check for and install them manually

Your Fire Stick receives software updates over the internet, usually while you sleep or when the device is idle. Amazon pushes these updates automatically to keep your device find and add new features. However, if you want to check right now whether an update is waiting, or force an update to install when ready, you can do that through the Settings menu in about two minutes.

The process is the same whether you own a Fire Stick 4K, Fire Stick HD, or the basic Fire Stick. You do not need a computer or any special equipment — everything happens on your TV through your remote.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings on your Fire Stick, go to My Fire TV, then About, and select Check for Updates to see if a new version is available.
  • If an update is waiting, select Install Update and your Fire Stick will restart — this usually takes five to ten minutes.
  • Your Fire Stick must be plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi for updates to read and install.
  • You cannot downgrade to an older version once an update installs, so updates are permanent.
  • If an update fails or your Fire Stick freezes during installation, unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try again.

Step-by-step: checking for and installing updates

Start by pressing the Home button on your Fire Stick remote to go to the main menu. From the home screen, use the remote to navigate to Settings — it is usually in the top right corner or in a menu bar at the top.

Once you are in Settings, scroll down and select My Fire TV. This opens a submenu with information about your device. Select About, then scroll down until you see Check for Updates. Press the select button on your remote.

Your Fire Stick will now connect to Amazon's servers and check whether a newer version exists. This takes 30 seconds to two minutes. If no update is available, you will see a message saying your device is up to date. If an update is waiting, you will see an Install Update button. Select it.

Your Fire Stick will restart automatically and begin downloading and installing the update. The screen will show a progress bar. Do not unplug the device during this time. Installation usually takes five to ten minutes, though larger updates can take longer. Your Fire Stick will restart again when the update finishes, and you will be back at the home screen.

What to do if an update fails or gets stuck

If the installation freezes, the screen goes black for more than 15 minutes, or you see an error message, unplug your Fire Stick from the power outlet. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. The device will restart and usually complete the update on the next attempt.

If the same error appears twice, make sure your Wi-Fi connection is stable by checking whether other devices in your home can browse the internet. If your internet is working but the Fire Stick update keeps failing, try moving your Fire Stick closer to your Wi-Fi router — a weak signal can interrupt the read. Once the signal is stronger, go back to Settings > My Fire TV > About > Check for Updates and try again.

If the update still will not install after a second attempt and a stronger Wi-Fi signal, restart your Fire Stick by unplugging it for one full minute, then plugging it back in. Once it boots up, wait 10 minutes before trying the update again — sometimes the device needs time to prepare.

Automatic updates and what they include

Amazon automatically sends updates to all Fire Sticks, usually between midnight and 6 a.m. in your time zone, when the device is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi. You do not have to do anything — the update downloads and installs on its own. Your Fire Stick may restart during the night, but you will not notice because you are asleep.

Updates include security patches to protect your device from hackers, bug fixes that solve problems with apps or streaming, and sometimes new features like interface changes or new Alexa voice commands. You cannot turn off automatic updates, and you cannot choose which updates to install — Amazon decides what your device needs.

Why your Fire Stick might not update automatically

If your Fire Stick has not received an update in several months, check whether it is plugged in consistently and whether your Wi-Fi is working. Fire Sticks only update when they are powered on and connected to the internet. If your device is unplugged most of the time or if your Wi-Fi drops frequently, automatic updates may not have had a chance to run.

Another reason updates might not arrive is if your Fire Stick is very old — Amazon eventually stops sending updates to devices that are five or more years old. If your device is older than that and you want the latest features and security patches, you may need to purchase a newer Fire Stick model.

Checking your current Fire Stick software version

To see what version of software your Fire Stick is currently running, go to Settings > My Fire TV > About. The screen will show your device name, serial number, and Software Version. This number looks like "5.2.6.4" or similar. You do not need to memorize it, but it is useful information if you ever contact Amazon support about a problem.

The software version number tells you how recent your updates are. If you see a version number that is more than six months old, manually checking for updates is a good idea, since automatic updates may have missed your device.

What happens after an update installs

After your Fire Stick finishes updating, everything works the same way as before. Your apps, passwords, and watch history remain exactly as they were. You will not lose any data or settings. The only visible change might be small improvements to the interface, faster performance, or new options in the Settings menu.

If you notice that an app is not working correctly after an update, try restarting the app by pressing the Home button and then opening the app again. If the problem continues, go to Settings > Apps > Manage Installed Applications, find the app, and select Force Stop. Wait 10 seconds, then open the app again. Most app problems after an update fix themselves this way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Fire Stick while it is updating?

No. During an update, your Fire Stick restarts and the screen will be blank or show a progress bar. You cannot watch anything or use apps until the update finishes. Plan updates for a time when you are not using the device, or manually install them during the day so you know when they will be done.

What if I unplug my Fire Stick during an update?

If you unplug it while the update is installing, the update will fail and your Fire Stick may not start up properly. Plug it back in when ready and let it restart. It will usually recover and complete the update on the next startup, but in rare cases you may need to restart it again.

Do I need to pay for updates?

No. All Fire Stick updates are free. Amazon includes them as part of owning the device. No subscription or additional cost is required.

How often does my Fire Stick update?

Amazon releases major updates roughly every two to four months, with smaller security patches in between. You may receive multiple updates per year, but you will not see them because they install automatically while you sleep.

Can I go back to an older version of software?

No. Once an update installs, you cannot downgrade to a previous version. Updates are permanent. If a new update causes a problem, you would need to contact Amazon support rather than reverting the software yourself.