In this post, we’ll go over how to sideload apps on an Amazon Fire TV device. This is achievable since Fire TV OS is actually Android at the core, so you can load apk files. In my case, I sideloaded Hulu since I’m in Canada (it’s not available on the Appstore here). The below assumes you also have an Android cellphone or tablet to send files to the Fire TV device.
Just a heads up warning that this isn’t guaranteed to work. Since you’ll be sideloading an app that isn’t truly designed for the Fire TV device. Another warning is to be cautious where you get your apk files from, be careful of downloading a virus. I use the website apkmirror (I won’t be providing a link, in the case in the very off chance you get a virus from that site). Do your research and be cautious.
The below instructions will be done using a wireless connection since many Fire TV devices don’t come with an Ethernet adapter.
Here are the steps to complete on the Fire TV device first:
-Download the app “Send Files to TV” (free app)
-The next app needed is a type of file explorer, I use the one literally called “File Explorer”
Now you need to switch to your Android device which also needs the “Send Files to TV” app and to be on the same network as your Fire TV device.
-Once the “Send Files to TV” app is open on your Android device, select “Send”.
-Browse your Android device for the apk file and tap it.
-Then you’ll be shown devices on your network with “Send Files to TV” running. In my case, my Fire TV device was called “AFTR”, simply tap on it.
-Now the file will upload to the Fire TV device.
On your Fire TV device:
-Open the main “Settings”.
-Select “My Fire TV”, “Developer Options”, turn “ADB Debugging” to ON.
-Select “Install Unknown Apps” and select your file explorer app to turn it ON.
Now open your file explorer app on your Fire TV device and navigate to the “Downloads” folder, select and open the apk file, install the app and that’s it!
Now you can open the app by going to the Fire TV apps listing and you’ll see your app available to open.
