In this post, we’ll go over what Firestick is and how it works. The Amazon FireStick 4K and Fire TV Cube are also covered in this article.
If you’re looking for a new streaming device, you’ve probably considered some of the most popular options. The most likely devices you’ll use are Amazon FireStick, Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast, and Android TV Boxes.
I can confidently say that Amazon FireStick is one of the best after having used all of them for a significant amount of time.
This guide aims to give you an overview of the Fire TV Stick and how it works so that you can make an informed decision.
If you’ve already purchased a FireStick, this guide will undoubtedly assist you in getting started.
Contents
What is Amazon FireStick
The FireStick is a streaming device that plugs into your television and allows you to watch content from the internet. The Amazon Fire TV Stick is the official name for the FireStick. It is, however, more commonly referred to as simply FireStick.
The FireStick is a device that runs on Android. The FireStick, however, does not support Google Play Services, unlike most Android devices. It runs on a modified version of Android and supports the Amazon Store.
You can stream shows, movies, live TV, and just about anything else with a FireStick. The Amazon Store has dozens of apps, including some of the most popular, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and others.
You can also use FireStick to sideload third-party apps that aren’t available on the Amazon Store.
What are the different Fire TV devices That Is available
Amazon currently sells these three devices:
Price of the Device
| FireStick 2nd Gen | $39.99 |
| FireStick 4K | $49.99 |
| Fire TV Cube | $119.99 |
If you want a more detailed comparison, check out our FireStick vs. FireStick 4K vs. Fire TV Cube post.
Fundamentally, all of these devices are the same. However, depending on your preferences, there are some significant differences.
Personally, I think the FireStick 4K is the most viable option right now.
What does FireStick do
Here are some of the things FireStick could do for you in a nutshell:
- Video Streaming (Movies, Shows, etc.)
- Listen to Music Online
- Play Video Games
- Alexa can provide you with information and answers (voice-controlled AI)
The Amazon Fire TV Stick is primarily used for video streaming. Its popularity stems from its ability to bring entertainment to your home with ease.
Amazon Store has streaming apps, or you can sideload third-party apps (discussed later in the guide).
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and almost anything else are all available.
On the FireStick, you can also download and play games. Some games, however, necessitate the use of the Amazon Fire TV Game Controller. It’s available for purchase separately on Amazon. To be honest, the FireStick isn’t known for its gaming capabilities.
One of the most appealing features of the FireStick and Fire TV is Alexa, the voice-controlled AI. Alexa will assist you in a variety of ways. Simply ask Alexa to open apps, give the weather forecast, locate nearby sushi restaurants, or even tell a joke by pressing the mic button on your remote.
Alexa can even control your smart devices and appliances if you have a Fire TV Cube.
How does FireStick Work
The FireStick is a simple streaming device. I’ve used nearly every streaming device available, including Roku, Chromecast, and Android TV boxes. It has, without a doubt, the most user-friendly interface. It’s simply too simple to use.
Let’s take a look at how FireStick works.
Using FireStick for the First Time
Here are a few things you should do first when you get your FireStick out of the box:
- Insert batteries in the remote control.
- Connect your FireStick to your TV’s HDMI port. The HDMI extender that comes with the device can also be used.
- Turn on your TV and select the HDMI port where your FireStick is plugged in as the source.
- Connect the FireStick to a power supply.
- Wait for the FireStick to turn on.
Setup of the FireStick for the First Time
You’ll need to set up your FireStick for the first time after taking it out of the box.
The setup procedure is simple. In our detailed guide, we’ve included a complete set of instructions: How to get Amazon FireStick up and running
You will be required to do the following during the setup:
Make sure you have a Wi-Fi connection and that it is within range of your FireStick.
Use your Amazon account to sign up: An Amazon account must be linked to your FireStick. You won’t be able to set it up without one. Create a free Amazon account if you don’t already have one through the Amazon web portal. If you already have an Amazon account with Prime membership, I recommend using that account to sign in. There’s a ton of Prime content you won’t want to miss out on. If you purchased a FireStick through Amazon, the device will be pre-configured with your Amazon account if you selected the option to “Link to my Amazon account to simplify setup.”
Get your channels and favorite apps from the Amazon Store
.Hundreds of apps and channels are available on the Amazon FireStick. You can get them from the Amazon App Store in two different ways.
Choose Find > Search from the FireStick home screen if you’re looking for something specific (menu bar)
Type in the name of the app you want to download into the search box and follow the on-screen instructions to get it from the App Store.
OR
Another option is to download the apps and channels from the Amazon Store. You can look through the entire list and download the ones you want.
From the FireStick home screen, go to Find > Appstore.
There are four options to choose from here: Apps, Featured, Games, and All Categories are all available to you.
The popular apps and channels recommended by Amazon can be found in the Featured section.
I usually go with All Categories to see what’s available in each category.
Here you will find all of the possible categories, such as Movies & TV, News, Music & Audio, Business, Communication, and others.
When you select a category, a list of related channels appears. For example, when I click Movies & TV, I get the following:
So that’s how you use the Amazon Store to get your favorite apps and channels.
Check out our list of the best Firestick channels as well.
How Does Firestick Work for Free Streaming
This is the best feature of the Firestick, and it’s why cord-cutters love it. The device is capable of streaming an endless amount of free content, such as movies, shows, documentaries, sports, and more.
Jailbreak FireStick
Jailbreaking your FireStick or Fire TV is the only way to unlock its full potential. You’ll have access to a ton of free content once you’ve jailbroken your device. You’ll find everything you want, whether it’s movies, shows, or live TV.
Jailbreaking is simple, and our step-by-step instructions make it even simpler.
Jailbreaking may appear to be a daunting task, but believe me when I say that it is not. We call it a “jailbreak” because resellers have popularized the term. Installing third-party apps that allow you to stream free content is part of the process. Here are a few quick facts to consider:
- Your device will not be harmed if you jailbreak it.
- WARRANTY IS NOT VOID IF YOU JAILBREAK YOUR PHONE.
- NO TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE IS REQUIRED FOR JAILBREAK.
Install third party APKs
While the jailbreak process guides you through the installation of the most popular apps, you can also install a variety of third-party APKs on your device.
After you’ve set up your FireStick, check out our list of the best FireStick apps we’ve compiled.
Some of the most popular apps can be found here. To get you started, you’ll also find links to installation guides.
Final Thoughts how does firestick work
That’s basically how FireStick works. This manual should assist you in getting started with your device right away. If you have any questions or comments, please share them with us in the section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a charge for using Fire Stick on a monthly basis?
Certainly not. The Amazon Fire TV Stick and other Fire TV models do not have a monthly fee. All you have to do now is purchase the device and begin streaming.
What channels are available for free on the Firestick?
You can watch hundreds of channels on Amazon Firestick, including both free and paid options. For more information, check out this list of the best Fire Stick channels.
Is an Internet connection required for the Amazon Fire Stick?
Yes, indeed. For the Fire TV Stick to work, you’ll need a high-speed internet connection.
Is a VPN required for firestick
Firestick does not require the use of a VPN. If you’re streaming with a low-cost or free service, however, you should invest in a good VPN to keep your online activities private. Here are ten reasons why everyone should use a virtual private network (VPN).
