This guide will walk you through the steps of installing (a.k.a. sideloading) a 3rd-party app, like Kodi, onto any Amazon Fire TV or Fire TV Stick. This guide uses my own app, called Downloader, which is available for free from the Amazon Appstore. You do not need a computer, an external drive, a keyboard, ADB, or anything else to follow this guide. All you need is your Fire TV remote and about a minute of your time. This is currently the quickest way to sideload apps on the Fire TV or Firestick, and is easier than using ES File Explorer.
Using Direct Download URL
- Be sure you have “Apps from Unknown Sources” turned on.
For the new Fire TV interface, this is under
Settings > Device > Developer Options
For the old Fire TV interface, this is under
Settings > System > Developer Options
- Install Downloader from Amazon’s Appstore onto your device. You can find it by simply searching for “Downloader” on your device.
- Launch Downloader and enter the URL of the APK file you want to install.
For Kodi v18, use the short URL:
bit.ly/kodi181apk (Mirror:bit.ly/kodi181mirror )
For Kodi v17.6, use the short URL:
bit.ly/kodi176 (Mirror:bit.ly/kodi176mirror )
- Select the “Download” button and wait for the APK file to download.
- Once the file finishes downloading, it will automatically ask to be installed. Press down a few times on your remote to select the “Install” button at the bottom right of the screen.
- When the APK file finishes installing, you can select to delete the APK you downloaded now that the app is installed.
- Please consider donating through the buttons on the app’s Home screen to support the app, or support AFTVnews as a whole by becoming a patron on Patreon.
Using Browser
(for when direct URL is unknown)
- Be sure you have “Apps from Unknown Sources” turned on.
For the new Fire TV interface, this is under
Settings > Device > Developer Options
For the old Fire TV interface, this is under
Settings > System > Developer Options
- Install Downloader from Amazon’s Appstore onto your device. You can find it by simply searching for “Downloader” on your device.
- Launch Downloader and enter the website URL where the app you want to install is located. For example, enter
kodi.tv for Kodi or enterspmc.semperpax.com for SPMC. You can try sites likeapkmirror.com orapkpure.com to see if they have the app you want. Note that you may need to enable JavaScript in the settings of Downloader for certain websites to work correctly. When asked, select to open the URL in the browser.
- To navigate the page, use the circular direction buttons on your Fire TV remote to move the cursor and the center button to click links. Find and click the app download link. For example, for Kodi click “Downloads” at the top of the page and select the “ARM” link, and for SPMC select the “ARM32 APK” link.
- Once the file finishes downloading, it will automatically ask to be installed. Press down a few times on your remote to select the “Install” button at the bottom right of the screen.
- When the APK file finishes installing, you can select to delete the APK you downloaded now that the app is installed.
- Please consider donating through the buttons on the app’s Home screen to support the app, or support AFTVnews as a whole by becoming a patron on Patreon.
@AFTVnews
AFTVnews
Love the idea and would love to see it have a option of just downloading
To a certain location like the root of internal storage.I use a app kodi back up a and restore and when i backup it creates a kodi.zip file in root of internal storage
And i want to be able to have a link to it so i can share it with friends and family
I saved mine in my google drive. You can pull it up in downloader once you log in.
How do you access your Google drive from downloader?
Is there an option to delete the apk file after install ?
I don’t think this app currently does this but ES file explorer can easily locate and delete unneeded apk files.
I plan to add that soon. For now, you can use a file manager like ES File Explorer or File Commander, to delete downloaded files. They are located in /sdcard/Downloader
Hi Elias how are you? I am trying to download this apk and i get and error can you help pliss i got the link from google play store how do i put it on the downloader app the app name is Telemicro 5
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.goodbarber.telemicro&hl=en tell me what i am doing wrong thanks,perhasp you can send me the right url
hi I’m receiving msg saying ( geographical restrictions ) i can’t watch any free movie as well . what to do to remove it ?
You need a VPN–one that has servers in the country where you need to be geographically
when you open downloader, menu’s on left go to “files” inside files are the downloads…scroll on it, click options and delete. I mean it shows you in the Pictures how to do it…….
Bravo, Thanks!
The only way I can think of to improve on this genius toy is to start developing a library of short URLs.
Hi JEHart. My name is Jim. Would be able and willing to email me a step by step for dnloading the set tv program? I have an Amazon fire tv box.
If the directions were mailed to you, can you email the step by step directions to me.
My email is PDBoyd44@aol.com
Thank you
Can you email me please THANKS
Well done !! You guys rock !!
How do you know if an app will work on the fire tv? Will any android app work on the fire tv ? Would the XFINITY app for an android phone work on
My fire tv ?
The xfinity app works. You can buy the mouse toggle app to turn your remote into a mouse. Can get that app on play store or fire tv store. Also remember apps2fire app on play store can transfer apps super fast. Also cleanmaster app on fire tv can delete unwanted apk files automatically. Love the idea of the app. Definitely add a list of good apps that work. Also tell if they require mouse support.
12/04/2016
Where exactly did you download the XFinity TV App APK that works on your Fire TV. I tried several on my Fire TV 2 (2015) that just abort and do nothing when they are run. Could you email me the APK file that works for you.
Thanks,
Peter
Peter.L.Schroeder@gmail.com
https://youtu.be/rDJGplIPBkw
There’s no way to know ahead of time. You just have to install it and try it.
Yes the xfinity Tv works on my fire tv so you can download it ok.
12/04/2016
Where exactly did you download the XFinity TV App APK that works on your Fire TV. I tried several on my Fire TV 2 (2015) that just abort and do nothing when they are run. Could you email me the APK file that works for you.
Thanks,
Peter
Peter.L.Schroeder@gmail.com
Wow…. Look at you! Way to go. Not only can you write great articles, but now you are writing code! Great helper app. Simple, clean, and I bet you it will become very popular…. and it’s free! Keep up the great work!
Thanks! Actually, writing code came first, then the articles. ;-) I was a front-end developer for 7 years before starting AFTVnews. However, this is my first attempt at Android development.
I have Kodi loaded onto my tablet, will this app work with my tablet?
Congratulations!
I really like this. Thank you for the simple design. Using a sideloaded browser, I just copied and pasted the sample Kodi URL into Downloader. Very easy. Just curious, although I know how to resize sideloaded app icons to the necessary resolution to look better in the Recent menu, is there a possibility that this function could be built into Downloader?
Can you download stb emulator like this? Do you know the link?
Definitely need to add some layer of security to this. Unfortunately this kind of utility could compromise the device.
Will the app come to uk?
Thanks mike
Tried it last night in the UK, works. Hardest part is typing a URL but you can copy from a browser if you have one installed
How would I find the URL for say kodi 17 nightly build?
I would stick with Kodi 16.1 for now. The 17 Krypton still has bugs and unstable. We should have the 17 by the end of the year or the beginning of the new yr.
I guess Amazon is ALL in now for side-loading apps. Finally, Amazon realizes that it’s because of Kodi, Modro and other apps, it’s product sells so well.
someone can help me with Express Vpn app?
I installed the app on Firetv 2 but when i open the app the screen is outsize and i cannot use nothing cause all firetv apps are outsized.
What happen on my firetv?
Thanks a lot
I recommend doing a google search for a video on how to turn your fire tv remote into a mouse. Then you can move around the screen, even if everything is “outsized.” I did this a while ago and can’t remember where I found the video, but if I can find it (I am so NOT techie) then you can too.
Good luck!
Where is your post about creating an app. Your post says you put it on you tube but i cant find it. I wanna make an app
This is really nice! I hadn’t loaded Kodi onto my wife’s home office tv’s 1st gen stick because she mainly did Netflix, Prime, etc. But she asked the other day so I literally just did a full Kodi plus the Kodi for Emby addon (we use Emby for all our local stuff) and it took me maybe 5 minutes to get it all loaded. That vs. a process that would take maybe 5x as long.
This thing is just a very nice, easy to use, handy little app. Many thanks, going right now back to Amazon to give it 5 stars!!!!
Can you email me instructions for fixing can’t reach server.
Thank you so much!! This is really appreciated.
Hi Elias, Great job on all the Amazon Updates of how to’s and sales and everything else.
Aside from that….on you Downloader App. I have a quick question maybe you or another person reading this can help me with…. I download an APK but I keep getting ”Parse Error”. Any idea what I’m doing wrong or what I can do to fix it? Thanks in advance!
I have the same problem with Horizont Go app.
I have the same issue, any ideas anyone? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Does anything like this exist in the Google Play store? An app that can download an apk file and request to install it? Or could we ever see a Google Play version of this? Thanks
Yep, it’s called SideloadTag.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.puppetmaster.tinydl
Does anyone have a URL for the latest Xfinity TV App to be used with Downloader to install it on a Fire TV?
Does anyone knows if kodi can be installed using downloader to the fire 7″ tablet that was selling for ~$33?
Yes it can. I have kodi on my kindle fire.
HI
Do you also know if the downloader app can also be obtain as an apk? If so where? Thanks
Thank you for your great app. I was very hesitant to try and load Kodi on my fire stick, but did it in about 3 minutes, and watched UFC last night.
Happy New Year
Bravo! So happy to find this. Have been looking for awhile. I hate using ES Explorer.
What is the url for the settings app. I am trying to download so I can connect a wireless keyboard to my fire tv. Thanks.
Can this be used to download the google play store?
I used #1 …once I download every thing then what I’m not technology savy at all
I have google play and kodi on my fire tablet but always d es explora
Hi
Love your app. It worked great. I used it to roll back from kodi 17 back to kodi Jarvis the file is there stored on the left hand side under files as it should be. Problem is for me to launch kodi. I have to press install every time I want to use kodi.
Do you now a way I can link it to my apps on the firestick from your downloader app so the kodi icon is there ready to use on my firestick homepage as was Before I went updated kodi 17.and had to uninstall it. Please would be. Rey grateful for help
can i use downloader to get google movies??
Is it possible via Kodi 17 and streaming apps also including acestream to switch automatically between 50 and 60hz? Doesnt work with Kodi 16.1 atm!
When I used it to download Kodi 161 it gives the downloaded .apk file a .txt extension. Am I doing something wrong?
Thanks for great app. Very easy to use. ES File Explorer can be rather clunky.
Can the app handle zip files?
Also, any chance of adding a way to donate with Pay Pal? If not through the app itself, then at least here at the website?
the link to SPMC v16.6 isn’t working
Will I automatically see the installed app in the menu? It worked great to download HD Homerun app but I don’t see it in the Fire Stick menu.
kodi.tv seized
I downloaded the downloaded and made sure the adb debugging and the apps from unknown are turned on and when I type in the URL in the downloaded it says an unknown error has occurred. Check the URL and connection. I checked both of them but still can’t figure out the problem. Any suggestions??
I been having the same issue. Cant figure it out either. Has anyone fixed this issue.
So i reset the firetv and re download the downloader app. It then let me download kodi and everything rlse i wanted. I did it right away though. It worked for me, hope this helps.
Ever since I updated to the newest/current version of Downloader, when I try to download my apk it thinks its a dot zip? Its an apk file that works from any other device even downloading from ES File Explorer, but that’s a awful app… Downloader list it as a .zip and will not install it. Anyone else see this with the new version? If so anyone know how to fix this, and if it will be patch?
Thanks!
I don’t get a .apk file extension changed to a .zip but Downloader does change it from a .apk to a .txt file on my Fire TV 1. I can rename the file back to a .apk with another app and then I can install it but I have no idea why the file gets renamed by Downloader. I get this when trying to download Kodi 161 from the link on this page used as an example:
For Kodi v16.1, use the short URL: http://bit.ly/kodi161arm
Thanks for the links to download so easy to use and update. I picked the 171 link key it in and loaded to ftv. I just installed it over k16.1 all my apps were there in the 17.1 started watching . This is the easiest loading of K I have done,no more side load crap on to the ftv.
Hello, I need some help.
I’m trying to install Kodi on my amazon fire tv. I followed all your steps. I used downloader and downloaded the APK file. However I could not install it since the option “Allow Appsfrom unknown sources are not enabled”. The problem is in my device under settings=>Developer Options i only have ADB debugging option only. I dont have other options as shown in your screen shot. My software version is: 51.1.1.0_user_511070220.
Pls help me out on how to install kodi . Thanks in advance
I’m going Kobi download and say “Parse Error” and “There was a problem the package” I need help me! :-(
I get the same thing on my Fire Stick. Don’t know what to do.
The Kodi 17.1 link is no good, the extension of the file it downloads is .txt instead of .apk.
Sorry I am new to this and a little confused all i really need to sideload is the nick jr. App that is in he android store. I can’t find a way to get the short urL. Does anyone know what it is? OR how to just download that Apple. THANk you
Can downloader be setup to use an external USB device as its download location? If so how?
Every time i try to download something i get an error saying no connection? But have full wifi connection.
Trying to download vpn apk from a OneDrive location.
Is this possible?
Link starts https:/
So i use kodi on my amazon firestick as a rotating picture frame for when guests come over. I have the original firestick and had 16.1 loaded on it. When i attempted to upgrade to 17.1 now that 17.3 is out everything went pretty smooth. That is until i tried reloading kodi after the update. Now all that loads is a black screen. I even tried reinstalling 16.1 back on it and still get nothing but a black screen. Any ideas how i can get kodi back?
Hi, I am trying to download kodi for my mate bit he doesn’t want to sign into his Amazon account, is the a way of watching kodi without signing in??
I heard of firestarter? Which pops up on the registration page, if so can you direct me please
What is the URL for Appstarter?
I finally got it to download with your URL so now what does it do? I thought it was jail breaking my Fire Tv if so a tutorial for is not so savvy individuals would be welcome
Need zip Support
Then is perfect
I type a url but it doesnt respond only show connecting… my internet connection is very good but i dont know whats the problem, can yoy help me?
Everytime I click on ‘downloader’ I get a black screen. Any advise?
I am a total novice but followed your instructions and got as far as typing in the URL on downloader. It then says GO but nothing happens. HELP! I´m running out of hair.
Why do I need to delete Apk after I download I thought that was part of kodi
Hello trying to download kodi 17.5 on new Fire tv (3rd gen brand new one) going though downloader using kodi.tv clicking on all the android icons then pick the 32bit like before now I get a message saying. An unknown error has occurred. Check your URL and connection. I get the same trying the 64bit version too
New FireTV3. Downloaded Kodi v17.5 but won’t install. Error message is No app found to handle this file
i have downloaded but will not install . what do I need to do?
Used ES file explorer and installed it. Now I wonder if it can have a short cut on the Home screen
i have modro installed but cant watch alot of shows due to it being off line . will it eventually fix itself or is there something i need to do. ihave v 2.0
I have a brand New Fire tv and I can’t get Kodi to load. Tried http://Kodi.tv/ download. I get an error message. An unknown error has occurred. Check your URL and connection
I keep getting the same error message, can anybody help ?
Hi I just purchased a new 10 inch kindle fire tablet I believe a 7th generation. I’m not seeing a option to download the downloaded app on it. Is this app not compatible with my device? Thank you
Help, I’m trying to download jaystv.org and I keep getting Unknown error check your URL and connection
you will need your UFC Fight Pass credentials to watch the live events. You also necessarily need a VPN so you can spoof your location from prying eyes. Bottom line is, whichever method you may prefer out of the two, you definitely need to configure FastestVPN to watch UFC on Kodi. http://bit.ly/ufc220
when i tried adding the browser i got a connection error and i granted access to all my folders why is this when i have a connection and everything else is working
Hi I am trying to get the downloader on my fire stick but I keep getting a “Purchase Error” It keeps saying that “there is no valid payment billing address” This is my dummy amazon account that I am using. I am trying to uninstall and re install Kodi onto my fire stick
I downloaded Kodi once but screwed something up so I did a factory reset and deleted both Kodi and the Downloader App, now when I try to download Kodi it just pops up with the download screen and just shows “connecting” and never does anything else. The other issue I have is if I try to click on any of the .APK files for Troypoint.com/ttv, The link highlights from blue to black and nothing further happens
Did you ever get a fix for this? I am having the same issue with 2 sticks so far…took the first one back because I thought it was a lemon.
I’m trying to go back to Kodi Jarvis from krypton could u give me step by step instructions
I keep trying to download Kodi and I get An unknown error has occurred. Check your URL AND CONNECTIONS
I am having issues with connecting to the url I put in. This just started a few days ago. Just sits there saying connecting and never connects. Checked connections and signal strength all is very good other apps work just not Downloader when I type in address. If I use browser it loads up and everything just not the home section nothing pulls up
Aaron, I’m having the same problem whilst trying to download. Just sitting there saying connecting… anyone got any advic?
Aaron, I have had this problem for weeks now, on all my Amazon Fire products. I can’t find an answer from anyone. I am going to try to reset them all today and see if that helps.
Downloader is not working as of 10/24/2018. It won’t connect to do the download. Is there something wrong . I have been using Downloader now for over a year and found it to be exstreamly relible. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Hi…is downloader available for fire 7 hd10 ? I keep getting not available for your device when searching for it
How do I type in the url using the remote when the keyboard does not appear? All I see is the donation button
Never Mind. Found it
I’m trying to download a file but when I try to install it on my Mecool box Google Play pops up and asking if I will allow downloader to install, however neither the “cancel” or the “allow” options work so I can’t install anything with the app. Any ideas?
Go to your devices main settings menu – > Apps – > App Management – > Find Downloader App on the list and click on it.
scroll down the app settings until you find an option to ‘Allow Apps from Unknown sources’
make sure you check the allow box.
Exit your settings and you should be good to go downloading with the Downloader app.
How to sideload kodi or Google play store sideload on usb on non smart tvs
One minor problem, when I tried to access Google play it asked me to login but I could not get passed the user id screen in the end I used the v7 option button to download the 32bit version of the app after that it installed ok