How to update your Fire Stick

Your Fire Stick updates automatically when it is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, usually overnight. You do not have to do anything — Amazon handles it in the background. If you want to check whether an update is available right now, or force an update without waiting, you can do that through the Settings menu in about two minutes.

The fastest way is to go to Settings, then Device and Software, then About, then Check for Updates. If an update is waiting, you will see a button to install it when ready. If your device is already current, the screen will tell you that.

Key Takeaways

  • Fire Stick updates happen automatically when the device is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, so you may never need to do anything manually.
  • To check for updates right now, open Settings, go to Device and Software, select About, and tap Check for Updates.
  • The update process takes a few minutes and your Fire Stick will restart when it is finished.
  • If an update fails or gets stuck, unplugging the device for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually fixes the problem.

Where to find the update option in Settings

Start from the home screen. Press the Menu button on your remote (the three horizontal lines). Scroll down to Settings and press Select.

Once you are in Settings, scroll down until you see Device and Software. Press Select on that option. You will now see several choices, including About, Network, Display, and others. Select About.

The About screen shows your current software version and the date it was installed. At the bottom of this screen, you will see Check for Updates. Press Select on that option, and the Fire Stick will search for any available updates.

What happens during the update process

If an update is found, you will see a button that says Install Update or similar wording. Press Select to begin. The Fire Stick will read the update, which usually takes one to three minutes depending on your internet speed.

Once the read is complete, the device will install the update automatically. During installation, you will see a progress bar on the screen. Do not unplug the Fire Stick during this time. The entire process normally takes five to ten minutes.

When the update is finished, your Fire Stick will restart. The screen will go black for a moment, then return to the home screen. Your device is now running the latest software version.

Automatic updates and when they happen

Amazon is designed to update your Fire Stick on its own schedule. This usually happens late at night or early morning when you are not using the device. For automatic updates to work, your Fire Stick must be plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.

If you leave your Fire Stick unplugged for days at a time, or if it loses Wi-Fi connection regularly, automatic updates may not happen on schedule. In those cases, manually checking for updates through Settings ensures you stay current.

What to do if an update fails or gets stuck

If the update process stops responding, or if you see an error message, the first step is to unplug the Fire Stick from power. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This resets the device and often clears whatever caused the problem.

Once the device restarts, go back to Settings, Device and Software, About, and try Check for Updates again. If the same error appears a second time, check your internet connection — a weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal can interrupt updates. Move the Fire Stick closer to your router or restart your router and try again.

If the problem continues after a second restart and a Wi-Fi check, unplug the device for a full minute before trying once more. Persistent update failures are rare, but a longer power cycle often resolves them.

Why you should keep your Fire Stick updated

Updates include security patches that protect your device from known vulnerabilities. They also add new features, fix bugs that cause apps to crash, and improve overall performance. Running an outdated version leaves your device and your account less find.

Updates are also required to use newer apps. If your Fire Stick falls too far behind, some apps in the Amazon Appstore will no longer work on it. Staying current ensures you can access the full range of streaming services and features available to your device.

Checking your current software version

To see what version of software your Fire Stick is running, go to Settings, Device and Software, then About. The screen will display the current software version number and the date it was installed.

You can compare this version number to Amazon's official Fire Stick support pages if you want to know whether a newer version exists. However, the Check for Updates button is the most reliable way to know — if no update is available, your device is already running the latest version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my Fire Stick?

Updates happen automatically, so you do not have to do anything. However, keeping your device updated is recommended for security and to may support apps continue to work. If you want to delay an update, you can straightforward not check for updates manually, but automatic updates will still occur when the device is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight.

Can I use my Fire Stick while it is updating?

No. During an update, the Fire Stick restarts and is not usable. The process usually takes five to ten minutes. Plan updates for a time when you are not watching, or let automatic updates happen overnight when you are asleep.

What if my Fire Stick is not connected to Wi-Fi?

Automatic updates require both a power connection and Wi-Fi. If your Fire Stick is not on Wi-Fi, connect it to your network first. Then go to Settings, Device and Software, About, and tap Check for Updates to search for any pending updates.

Will an update erase my apps and settings?

No. Updates preserve all your apps, login information, and settings. After the update completes and your Fire Stick restarts, everything will be exactly as you left it.

How often do Fire Stick updates happen?

Amazon releases updates periodically throughout the year, not on a fixed schedule. Some months may have multiple updates, while other months may have none. Checking for updates manually once a month ensures you catch any new versions quickly.