Amazon’s FireStick has emerged as a frontrunner among streaming devices, blending cost-effectiveness, speed, and unparalleled user-friendliness. With compatibility spanning Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more, plus the flexibility to seamlessly integrate third-party applications, the FireStick is a cord-cutter dream. In this article, I’ll share many tips and tricks garnered from years of Fire TV device use. Let’s dive in!
Contents
List of Top 20 tips and tricks to Use on FireStick
1. Change the Device Name
Whenever you acquire an Amazon device, it comes with a default name. To avoid confusion, especially if you have multiple devices, you can change the name easily. Navigate to the Manage Your Content and Devices page in your browser, select the Devices tab, click your device, and choose the Edit link to personalize the name.
2. Transform Your Phone into a Remote Control
Enhance your FireStick control by downloading the FireStick remote app (available on Android or iOS). Ensure your phone is on the same Wi-Fi network, and use the app for comprehensive control, including a keyboard for easy text input and voice capabilities.
3. Delete Voice Recordings
While Amazon records your voice searches to enhance accuracy, you can delete these recordings. Visit the Manage Your Content and Devices page, select your device, and click on Delete Voice Recordings. Alternatively, use the Amazon Alexa mobile app to delete voice searches individually.
4. Calibrate Your TV Display
Ensure your videos match your TV screen size by calibrating the display. This one-time process eliminates the annoyance of videos appearing too small or overshooting the screen. Head to Settings > Display & Sounds > Display > Calibrate Display to tailor the settings to your preference.
5. Disable Auto-Playing Video
Prevent annoying auto-playing videos by going to Settings > Preferences > Featured Content > Allow Video Autoplay. While there, turn off Allow Audio Autoplay as well.
6. Leverage Alexa for Voice Control
Tap into the voice-controlled prowess of Alexa for more than just answering questions. Let Alexa open streaming apps and even search for specific titles, minimizing the reliance on your remote. Note that Alexa functions primarily with official apps from the Amazon Store.
7. Immerse Yourself with Bluetooth Headphones/Speakers
To watch Netflix quietly at night without bothering others, wear Bluetooth headphones and connect them to the FireStick in Settings > Controllers & Bluetooth Devices > Other Bluetooth Devices. The audio will play in the headphones until you switch them off.
8. Clear Your Data
Amazon keeps track of what you buy, and if you use a FireStick, it also knows what you watch and listen to. To delete this information occasionally, go to the FireStick settings, choose Applications, then Managed Installed Applications. Pick an app like Amazon Music or Prime Video, and click on Clear data or Clear cache to start fresh.
9. Cast/Mirror Videos onto FireStick
You can share content from other devices on FireStick by casting or mirroring. This works with mobiles, tablets, and computers. To use this feature, the platform you’re using must support casting, and both your FireStick and the casting device should be on the same Wi-Fi network. For instance, YouTube supports casting. When playing a video on your computer or mobile, click the cast option and select your FireStick. The video will play on your TV. It’s a simple process, and I find it valuable as a cord-cutter to access videos from various platforms on my FireStick.
10. Explore IPTV Subscriptions for Extensive Channel Access
Optimize your FireStick with an IPTV subscription for an affordable array of cable-TV channels. Explore reputable IPTV services for cost-effective streaming, ensure you adhere to legal and privacy guidelines.
11. Install a Browser for Expanded Streaming Options
Unleash countless streaming possibilities by installing a browser on your FireStick. Access free websites for live sports, movies, TV shows, and more. Simply search for Silk Browser and open up a new world of streaming.
12. Expand Storage with USB Flash Drive
Tackle the internal storage limitations of FireStick by expanding it with a USB Flash Drive. Use an OTG Cable to connect and install applications directly onto the external USB Drive, providing more space for your favorite apps.
13. Enhance Video Playback with External Video Players
Optimize your streaming experience by using external video players within applications. Popular players like MX Player and VLC Media Player can eliminate buffering issues and enhance overall playback performance.
14. Put FireStick to Sleep or Restart for Quick Actions
Quickly put your FireStick to sleep or restart it for troubleshooting purposes. Hold down the Home button and select Sleep for a quick sleep mode, or simultaneously hold the Select and Play/Pause buttons for about five seconds to restart.
15. Utilize Screen Magnifier for Enhanced Visibility
Enhance visibility with the Screen Magnifier feature, especially useful for users with visual impairments. Enable it through Settings > Accessibility > Screen Magnifier, and enjoy a clearer, more focused view of pictures and content.
16. Display Personal Photos as Screensavers
Personalize your FireStick screensavers by displaying your photos. Download the Amazon Photos app on your Android or iOS device, sync your photos across Amazon devices, and customize your screensaver settings.
17. Set Up Parental Controls for Content Restrictions
If your kids enjoy watching streaming TV, it’s important to set up parental controls to prevent them from accessing inappropriate content. In the settings, go to Preferences > Parental Controls and toggle it on/off. Create a PIN code to control access to mature content and purchases. These controls can also block games, apps, and photos for unauthorized users. Alternatively, you can set up parental controls in your Amazon Video settings on a PC to apply restrictions across all devices accessing the service.
18. Utilize X-Ray Feature
Here’s a simple step to check how your Firestick is working.
To start, hold down the Select button for a second, then also press the Down button. Keep both buttons held for about 3-4 seconds. Next, release both buttons and press the Menu button on the remote. If it doesn’t work, try holding Select and Down together at the same time.
This tool lets you see how much RAM Memory your Firestick is using and gives info about your network connection.
To stop this, just do the same steps you did to turn it on and then switch off System X-Ray.
Disable the click sound when navigating your Fire TV by going to Settings > Display & Sounds > Audio > Navigation Sounds.
20. Re-pair the Remote
If your remote doesn’t pair, hold down the home button for 5-10 seconds to repair it. This also works for new remotes or game controllers.
Conclusion
These tips and tricks, accumulated through years of FireStick use, are geared to elevate your streaming experience. Implement them to unlock the full potential of your FireStick and enjoy seamless, personalized content streaming.