AMAZON BLOCKS SIDELOADING ON NEW FIRE STICKS

INDUSTRY DESK■ 1 MIN READ

FRI, APR 17, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Amazon's two newest Fire Stick models no longer support sideloading apps from outside the Amazon Appstore. The change restricts users to only officially approved applications.

The latest Fire Stick generations have removed the ability to install apps from unknown sources, a feature previously available on older models. Users can no longer sideload third-party applications onto these devices. This represents a shift in Amazon's approach to its streaming hardware. The restriction limits users to Amazon's curated app selection, potentially blocking access to certain streaming services or custom applications. The move aligns with Amazon's tighter control over its Fire ecosystem. Sideloading had allowed power users to install alternative streaming apps and software not available in the official store. Amazon has not publicly announced plans to reintroduce sideloading support on future Fire Stick models. Users seeking sideloading capabilities would need to purchase older Fire Stick hardware while available.

■ SOURCES

► Ars Technica

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

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AMAZON BLOCKS SIDELOADING ON NEW FIRE STICKS

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