If you own an Amazon FireStick, you may have noticed that the device does not allow users to install applications from unknown sources. This can be frustrating if you want to install a third-party app that is not available on the Amazon App Store.
Thankfully, there is a way to sideload an APK file onto your FireStick using your PC. In this tutorial, we will show you how to install APK on FireStick from PC.
What is an APK file?
Before we dive into the installation process, let’s first define what an APK file is. An APK file is an Android Package Kit that contains all the files needed for an Android app to install and run on your device. Most Android apps come in the form of APK files.
Step 1: Prepare Your FireStick
The first step in installing an APK on your FireStick is to prepare your device. To do this, navigate to “Settings” from the home screen and select “My Fire TV.”
From there, select “Developer Options.” If you don’t see this option, click on “About” and then click on “Build Number” seven times until it says “You are now a developer.”
Once you’re in Developer Options, turn on “ADB Debugging” and “Apps from Unknown Sources.” This will allow your device to accept installations from sources other than the Amazon App Store.
Note: Be cautious when installing third-party apps as they may contain malware or viruses.
Step 2: Download and Install ADB Drivers
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) drivers are required for your PC to communicate with your FireStick. You can download ADB drivers for Windows or Mac from various sources online. Once downloaded, extract the files and install them onto your computer.
Step 3: Download and Install ES File Explorer
ES File Explorer is a popular file manager app that will allow you to transfer the APK file from your PC to your FireStick. You can download ES File Explorer directly from the Amazon App Store on your FireStick.
Step 4: Connect Your FireStick to Your PC
To connect your FireStick to your PC, you will need a USB cable. Plug one end of the cable into your FireStick and the other end into your computer’s USB port. Make sure that both devices are turned on and properly connected.
Step 5: Transfer the APK File to Your FireStick
Open ES File Explorer on your FireStick and navigate to “Network” on the left-hand menu. Select “Remote Manager” and turn it on. You will see an FTP address and port number displayed.
On your PC, open a web browser and enter the FTP address into the URL bar followed by the port number (e.g., ftp://192.168.0.100:3721). This will open a window displaying all the folders on your FireStick.
Navigate to the folder where you want to store the APK file and click “Upload” in ES File Explorer on your FireStick. Select the APK file that you want to install from your computer and wait for it to transfer.
Step 6: Install the APK File
Once you have transferred the APK file, go back to ES File Explorer on your FireStick and navigate to where you stored it. Click on it, and a window will appear asking if you want to install it. Click “Install,” and wait for it to finish installing.
You can now access and use this app just like any other app installed from Amazon App Store.
Conclusion
Installing an APK onto a FireStick may seem daunting at first glance, but with these simple steps, anyone can do it with ease! Whether you want to install a streaming app or a game, sideloading an APK file onto your FireStick gives you access to a world of new content. Remember to be cautious when installing third-party apps and ensure that they come from a trusted source.