Don't Update Fire TV as New Update Removes Sideloading (Unconfirmed Reports) - Fire TV General

Don't Update Fire TV as New Update Removes Sideloading (Unconfirmed Reports)
Fire TV 51.1.5.0_user_515020820. Fire Stick TV54.1.1.0_user_110035420.
"Just installed it folks. Fantastic upgrade. Love the new Shortcuts menu.
Only one hitch: you can’t run sideloaded apps anymore. So no Kodi."
Polly Wally McDougal
http://www.aftvnews.com/amazon-fire...-tv-stick-update-54-1-1-0-have-been-released/

my kodi 14.2 rc1 runs with the new firestick update

ISMADDER said:
Don't Update Fire TV as New Update Removes Sideloading (Unconfirmed Reports)
Fire TV 51.1.5.0_user_515020820. Fire Stick TV54.1.1.0_user_110035420.
"Just installed it folks. Fantastic upgrade. Love the new Shortcuts menu.
Only one hitch: you can’t run sideloaded apps anymore. So no Kodi."
Polly Wally McDougal
http://www.aftvnews.com/amazon-fire...-tv-stick-update-54-1-1-0-have-been-released/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got trolled brother.

ISMADDER said:
Don't Update Fire TV as New Update Removes Sideloading (Unconfirmed Reports)
Fire TV 51.1.5.0_user_515020820. Fire Stick TV54.1.1.0_user_110035420.
"Just installed it folks. Fantastic upgrade. Love the new Shortcuts menu.
Only one hitch: you can’t run sideloaded apps anymore. So no Kodi."
Polly Wally McDougal
http://www.aftvnews.com/amazon-fire...-tv-stick-update-54-1-1-0-have-been-released/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That commenter is definitely trolling. Several others confirmed that sideloading still works. I've delete the comment to prevent any further panic/confusion.

updating
I would like to remind you guys that Kodi is on the Amazon app store, therefore you don't need to panic in the case any of the previous comments is true.

this might be true, been trying with adbfire 1.22 keep getting loop install bar
nevermind was able to sidled still after update

I wish people would stop getting nervous about third party app support being taken away, cause that is never gonna happen. Amazon even went above and beyond to make it easy for us to have third party apps, and they are not gonna take it away. Amazon knows the Fire TV would be useless without third party apps and they are smart enough to know that they need to provide an easy way to let us install them. Stop being silly, we are never ever gonna lose the ability to install third party apps, PERIOD. Sure Amazon does not want us to use the third party launcher so disabled wallpapers, but if you made the Fire TV you would also want people to only use your lanchers that has all your media for sell on the home screen, cause thats how they make money, but third party apps are different, and Ammazon is not dumb enough to try and stop us from installing any app we want to install. The only reason people think this s because some people had a problem with one of the firmwares and reported XBMC stopped working on it, but it as just a bug and nothing Amazon did to block it and it was promply fixed. Stop being so paranoid, cause Kodi and any other app that will run on the Fire TV is here to stay. Do you honestly think that Amazon would have went to the trouble of giving us a button to turn on installing app from unknown sources if they did not want us to install third party apps? Hell no they wouldn't have. They could care less what we install or they would not have gave us the button in the first place. Put it to rest, sideloading apps will never never never never never never stop on the Fire TV.

It's also extremely hard to block sideloading yet still allow developers to test apps on the device - so it won't ever go away.

i just tried sideloading towel root to my fire tv now it has no adb connect, says no device connected, wont connect to adb shell either. any ideas or suggetions. thanks.

TowelRoot won´t work and concerning ADB you have to enable it first:
https://developer.amazon.com/appsandservices/solutions/devices/fire-tv/docs/connecting-adb

I got the new update and all my sideloaded apps still works.

Side load is still possible if you have dropbox
moeduss said:
i just tried sideloading towel root to my fire tv now it has no adb connect, says no device connected, wont connect to adb shell either. any ideas or suggetions. thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can still side load apps on the Amazon FireStick or TV by using the method described in my video:
Check out NERDHACKS101 on youtube
(You need to have Dropbox on your Amazon FireTV or FireStick.)

moeduss said:
i just tried sideloading towel root to my fire tv now it has no adb connect, says no device connected, wont connect to adb shell either. any ideas or suggetions. thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can only assume you didnt enable adb on your aftv

Sent from my SM-N900P using XDA Free mobile app

mods, I suggest you please delete or lock this thread. it wasn;t accurate 4 months ago and people bumping it will just cause more confusion and rumors.

tekweezle said:
mods, I suggest you please delete this thread. it wasn;t accurate 4 months ago and people bumping it will just cause more confusion and rumors.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+ 1 for this.

Related

Software Update version 51.1.4.0_user_514006420

Amazon just posted the source code to software version 51.1.4.0_user_514006420 on the US Source Code Notice page. So far this update has been limited to UK Fire TVs, but based on the timeline of the German updates, we should all start to see this update roll out soon. The last two updates both began arriving on US Fire TVs 3 days after the source code was posted.
Be warned that there is an older update prior to this one, numbered 51.1.40_user_514005520, that is reportedly causes XBMC/Kodi to instantly crash on launch. I'm guessing most, if not all, will skip it and update directly to the newer version.
Reason number 1 to root and block updates.
Download URL for software version 51.1.4.0_user_514006420 is http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ueller-ota-51.1.4.0_user_514006420-signed.bin
Interestingly, the file path is slightly different from previous updates.
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net/obfuscated-otav3/... (this update)
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net/obfuscated/... (all previous updates)
Thankfully the domain has stayed the same.
Like the previous update, the Fire TV I don't want to lose root on is the one that received the update. So I'll post my overview of the changes this update brings when either my "sacrificial" Fire TV gets the update or rbox gets time to pre-root this one.
Psst, @rbox
My FireTV updated last night to this firmware (I am in the Netherlands). XBMC/Kodi still works.
AFTVnews.com said:
Download URL for software version 51.1.4.0_user_514006420 is http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ueller-ota-51.1.4.0_user_514006420-signed.bin
Interestingly, the file path is slightly different from previous updates.
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net/obfuscated-otav3/... (this update)
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net/obfuscated/... (all previous updates)
Thankfully the domain has stayed the same.
Like the previous update, the Fire TV I don't want to lose root on is the one that received the update. So I'll post my overview of the changes this update brings when either my "sacrificial" Fire TV gets the update or rbox gets time to pre-root this one.
Psst, @rbox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I just updated my Fire TV and uploaded it to my prerooted thread. It looks pretty much the same although my Menu Items xposed module stopped working. It looks like they added the English (UK) language to the selection list. FreeTime still shows up even when switching the language, so not sure how the German/UK boxes know to hide it. Netflix told me I had to update. I hadn't seen anyone mention a new Netflix version and I don't know if people on the old firmware can update to it. The old one is here and the new one is here. It looks like it's a completely different package name, but somehow the Fire TV knows to remove the old one in the process. Some Amazon magic probably, because stock Android doesn't do that. I think this is the "new" layout people have been waiting for. It also seems like it's possibly a native android app vs the old one which seemed to be an html5 app. I am having issues with actually using the Netflix app though. At first it wouldn't log in, then it finally did and it doesn't seem to want to play anything. It might have to do with the fact that the tz partition was updated and it requires that update. I hope not because updating tz can cause an instabrick. I may have to look into this later if Netflix doesnt start working tomorrow.
same issue here. I hope, there is a solution for this as i want the new netflix ui
I tried too. I was forced to upgrade the Netflix app which then prompted me to re-enter my login credentials. I had no problem with that, but nothing will play. I restarted the app multiple times. It always connects to the service, but cant play anything. The circular indicator comes up and spins a bit, gets to 3% and then fails with a message saying that the video cannot be played right now.
Unless Voice search is part of this NetFlix update or not sure if it was already functioning ?? Isn't it better to just sideload NetFlix from the PlayStore since it's the one that gets the most/quickest updates anyway ?? And get rid of this one ?
Y314K said:
Unless Voice search is part of this NetFlix update or not sure if it was already functioning ?? Isn't it better to just sideload NetFlix from the PlayStore since it's the one that gets the most/quickest updates anyway ?? And get rid of this one ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the Android Netflix app once. Thought it ran and looked like crap.
If I update to this with a prerooted image, will I get root, if I don't currently have root?
shollywood said:
If I update to this with a prerooted image, will I get root, if I don't currently have root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you need root (and custom recovery) to update the pre-rooted image. So, no, you won't...
possible Netflix fix?
rbox said:
So I just updated my Fire TV and uploaded it to my prerooted thread. It looks pretty much the same although my Menu Items xposed module stopped working. It looks like they added the English (UK) language to the selection list. FreeTime still shows up even when switching the language, so not sure how the German/UK boxes know to hide it. Netflix told me I had to update. I hadn't seen anyone mention a new Netflix version and I don't know if people on the old firmware can update to it. The old one is here and the new one is here. It looks like it's a completely different package name, but somehow the Fire TV knows to remove the old one in the process. Some Amazon magic probably, because stock Android doesn't do that. I think this is the "new" layout people have been waiting for. It also seems like it's possibly a native android app vs the old one which seemed to be an html5 app. I am having issues with actually using the Netflix app though. At first it wouldn't log in, then it finally did and it doesn't seem to want to play anything. It might have to do with the fact that the tz partition was updated and it requires that update. I hope not because updating tz can cause an instabrick. I may have to look into this later if Netflix doesnt start working tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just had a look over on the amazon forums and found this below. Is someone able to try this to see if it fixes Netflix please? If I upgrade & break Netflix I'll be in a lot of trouble with the family
From Amazon customer discussions...
"I found this tip somewhere, and it finally worked. Apparently the Amazon Video app has problems clearing cache or some such.
Go into your settings--> Apps---> Amazon Video. Click the clear cache, and then the delete data. Let it sit for about 30 seconds. Back out and view it to make sure they both show 0.0 MB. Then just turn off (unplug) the FireTV for about 30 seconds. When you come back in, Netflix, Hulu and anything else that has been having trouble connecting will work again. IIts clearly a bug in the Prime Video software "
Resnoid said:
If I upgrade & break Netflix I'll be in a lot of trouble with the family
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just backup and restore the backup if it doesn't work.
rbox said:
Just backup and restore the backup if it doesn't work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are quite correct. Complete brain failure on my part
Tried it and its not working. Same problem as before...
Sent from my One A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
moqwai. said:
Tried it and its not working. Same problem as before...
Sent from my One A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about clearing the cache of the NetFlix app too... Or uninstalling Netflix & trying to get it from the Amazon Store again.
Y314K said:
How about clearing the cache of the NetFlix app too... Or uninstalling Netflix & trying to get it from the Amazon Store again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried that earlier. I cleared data and cache from the Netflix app but it didn't help. (Though I still had no problem connecting again after entering my credentials for the second time.)
I have a possible fix for Netflix. I'm not very confident about it and there is a very good chance it could brick the Fire TV. If anyone wants to try it, knowing that it could very well brick it, PM me.
rbox said:
I have a possible fix for Netflix. I'm not very confident about it and there is a very good chance it could brick the Fire TV. If anyone wants to try it, knowing that it could very well brick it, PM me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i cant get the new netflix to install on the older firmware, not backwards compatible for me at least.. which is weird since US users aren't forced to update yet afaik so it should work, amazon store says it sent it to my fire tv but it was still the old app. so i added it to the amazon cloud, which got it showing up on the TV, when i goto download it i get "install failed". Are any US users using the new netflix app with an older firmware and updates blocked?
can we swap boot and recovery and still get to fire OS via reboot recovery? might make it safer to test.
nhumber said:
i cant get the new netflix to install on the older firmware, not backwards compatible for me at least.. which is weird since US users aren't forced to update yet afaik so it should work, amazon store says it sent it to my fire tv but it was still the old app. so i added it to the amazon cloud, which got it showing up on the TV, when i goto download it i get "install failed". Are any US users using the new netflix app with an older firmware and updates blocked?
can we swap boot and recovery and still get to fire OS via reboot recovery? might make it safer to test.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The new netflix app seems to require a newer version of the Amazon SDK. After playing around with some things I noticed it's expecting a new type of drm library that if it doesn't exist it will fail to run. And that library didn't exist before 51.1.4.0.
As for testing my fix, it's something that would prevent the main bootloader from working if it were to brick it. If only someone was able to figure out how to write the mmc, it'd be very risk free to test...

Fire TV Stick side loaded apps on the main menu how to with out root

Not sure if this is known already but i found a way to make my side loaded apps appear under apps on my fire stick main menu using agk fire app.
I download and installed the amazon store apk on my phone then side-loaded it on my fire tv stick, after that you will be able to see all the side-loaded apps under app section thus eliminating the need to use fired tv launcher or llama app,
I am not sure if it works with the fire tv but i guess someone can try and report back.
stress1ner said:
Not sure if this is known already but i found a way to make my side loaded apps appear under apps on my fire stick main menu using agk fire app.
I download and installed the amazon store apk on my phone then side-loaded it on my fire tv stick, after that you will be able to see all the side-loaded apps under app section thus eliminating the need to use fired tv launcher or llama app,
I am not sure if it works with the fire tv but i guess someone can try and report back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This has been reported before. I believe it may stop some of the amazon services from working properly (installing apps, watching videos, etc.) I have never tried it personally though.
Applications Organizer Pro FireTV edition does this too. You can enable single click launch in the app settings last time I checked it was on sale for $0.99. It is native. I wish FiredTV was approved as native
Edit: link
http://www.amazon.com/Application-Organizer-Pro-Fire-Edition/dp/B00Q3907T6
Hey I did install the appstore apk and it did make all the apps appear on the main menu under apps. However it just goes away after the fire tv stick is restarted. Not sure what is wrong, is there any other option which needs to be changed?
goodhur said:
Applications Organizer Pro FireTV edition does this too. You can enable single click launch in the app settings last time I checked it was on sale for $0.99. It is native. I wish FiredTV was approved as native
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes the app certainly makes things easier than going through settings etc.. . Since its a native app to FTV, it shows on the main apps homepage. Nice.. If the developer could add a "Dashboard View" that can be displayed on startup, and allow the user to tag specific apps to show on the dashboard, this would satisfy me. It would allow the most used apps to be launched with two clicks from the home page apps category.
I'm running vanilla FireTV, no root, no Organizer Pro, nothing special. I've noticed, as others have as well, that if you sideload an Amazon app store app it will show up in "Recent" on the main AFTV menu. Between this and the AGK Fire side-loading app on my Android phone this is good enough for me. Just install an app from Amazon on my phone, then with a few clicks AGK Fire pushes it to my AFTV and I'm good to go. Now if only Amazon would push out an update to let us use USB storage for apps or at least app data without rooting I'd be completely satisfied.
How are you guys able to sideload the amazon appstore apk onto the FireTV
I downloaded the Amazon appstore apk from the Amazon website onto my computer and tried sideloading using ADB. When trying to sideload, the command states "FAILURE [INSTALL_FAILED_ALREADY-EXISTS]"
Is it because the amazon appstore is currently installed on the firetv?
Edit: I just used the AGK Fire app and it worked perfectly. Is there anyway for Kodi to appear on the recents menu?
EFEXR said:
How are you guys able to sideload the amazon appstore apk onto the FireTV
I downloaded the Amazon appstore apk from the Amazon website onto my computer and tried sideloading using ADB. When trying to sideload, the command states "FAILURE [INSTALL_FAILED_ALREADY-EXISTS]"
Is it because the amazon appstore is currently installed on the firetv?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
adb install -r [apk goes here]
goodhur said:
Applications Organizer Pro FireTV edition does this too. You can enable single click launch in the app settings last time I checked it was on sale for $0.99. It is native. I wish FiredTV was approved as native
Edit: link
http://www.amazon.com/Application-Organizer-Pro-Fire-Edition/dp/B00Q3907T6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I keep seeing people say the firedTV launcher should be a native app, but that will never happen. There is a better chance of Amazon sellling Fire TVs at buy one get two free than them approving another laucher to be a native app. They do not want other launchers to be used, and for good reason, they are a business that is selling entertainment and their product is incorporated in to their launcher, so why would they be dumb enough to approve a launcher that does nothing to help sell their products? Approving the fired TV launcher to be a native app would be beyond stupid for Amazon to do. I do not like the default launcher at all, but the day Amazon approves a third party launcher as a native app for the fire TV, is the day I lose respect for them as a business, and so would all their investors.
---------- Post added at 02:55 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:50 AM ----------
EFEXR said:
How are you guys able to sideload the amazon appstore apk onto the FireTV
I downloaded the Amazon appstore apk from the Amazon website onto my computer and tried sideloading using ADB. When trying to sideload, the command states "FAILURE [INSTALL_FAILED_ALREADY-EXISTS]"
Is it because the amazon appstore is currently installed on the firetv?
Edit: I just used the AGK Fire app and it worked perfectly. Is there anyway for Kodi to appear on the recents menu?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do not really have to uuse adb to sideload apps, just download them from your browser and install em, cause its much easier. I have sideloaded two apps, a browser and a file manager, and if you have those to apps there is no need for using adb.
porkenhimer said:
I keep seeing people say the firedTV launcher should be a native app, but that will never happen. There is a better chance of Amazon sellling Fire TVs at buy one get two free than them approving another laucher to be a native app. They do not want other launchers to be used, and for good reason, they are a business that is selling entertainment and their product is incorporated in to their launcher, so why would they be dumb enough to approve a launcher that does nothing to help sell their products? Approving the fired TV launcher to be a native app would be beyond stupid for Amazon to do. I do not like the default launcher at all, but the day Amazon approves a third party launcher as a native app for the fire TV, is the day I lose respect for them as a business, and so would all their investors.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is just wishful thinking. I agree with you and do not expect it to be approved in it's current design. A substitute launcher that hijacks the home button will not be approved by Amazon ever, even is just an option that is disabled. (I posted that in the Fired TV thread). It would interfere with the advertisement of paid content. All I want is simple grid "sublauncher" for sideloaded apps like chainfire did for the Nexus Player, but native. I think that fact that App Organizer was a passive app allowed it through.

Apps on main menus Unrooted firetv

Hi my first thread I was excited. I have been using aptoide for installing virtually anything without any difficulties and whilst browsing it informed me there was an upgrade for Amazon store, of course I clicked it, I have updates blocked in the router by the way.
Well I didn't expect much , Amazon store runs for about 20 seconds and closes so far, shame.
I opened my main menu, closing the fire menu Low and Behold all my apps now appear in the main app menu . I have powered off and on, they are still there. Here is the screen shots, excuse the text I'm on my phone . Enjoy
photize said:
Hi my first thread I was excited. I have been using aptoide for installing virtually anything without any difficulties and whilst browsing it informed me there was an upgrade for Amazon store, of course I clicked it, I have updates blocked in the router by the way.
Well I didn't expect much , Amazon store runs for about 20 seconds and closes so far, shame.
I opened my main menu, closing the fire menu Low and Behold all my apps now appear in the main app menu . I have powered off and on, they are still there. Here is the screen shots, excuse the text I'm on my phone . Enjoy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a great post.
I really want this but do not want to loose my root access or want any funky issues. I think my questions will put a lot of user concerned to rest.
I hope someone brave enough who has rooted there AFTV would try your approach and see if it works. I would love it if that person can confirm the following
1) Was your AFTV rooted before you click on the AmazonApp and updated?
2) did you block OTP updates using adb or just thru router?
3) what firmware are you currently running? Is amazon stock firmware or pre-rooted firmrware?
4) Did you try the boot into CWM using Rbox boot menu and try to reboot system thru CWM for normal amazon boot?
Thank you
Doesn't this break the Amazon apps?
photize said:
Hi my first thread I was excited.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great first post. Thanks!
And welcome to the asylum.
jpeg42 said:
Doesn't this break the Amazon apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read in another thread that installing the Amazon Appstore breaks something.
Would be nice to have all appears appearing like this, but I'm waiting until I hear more.
hate to be that guy but this is old news. has been known for a long time
jpeg42 said:
Doesn't this break the Amazon apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes it wants u to log in with no way to. the reason i stopped using it.
pbanj said:
hate to be that guy but this is old news. has been known for a long time
yes it wants u to log in with no way to. the reason i stopped using it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi I did as stated have Amazon store open. With my details etc I clicked through to log-in all fine the store opened and can be opened but closes after a short period. I did not use the store before presuming it unavailable and just a service I don't have anything paid on the device and probably never will being an ex-pat. Just running xbmc with smart DNS all fine here Thx
photize said:
Hi I did as stated have Amazon store open. With my details etc I clicked through to log-in all fine the store opened and can be opened but closes after a short period. I did not use the store before presuming it unavailable and just a service I don't have anything paid on the device and probably never will being an ex-pat. Just running xbmc with smart DNS all fine here Thx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it is fine if u dont use prime video or any of that but if u do it breaks things
It doesn't really break anything, and there's a simple solution to get things working as they should, simply uninstall and things are instantly back to working. What I have always done is keep the app store apk so that I can uninstall when I need to install amazon apps, then reinstall when I am done.
Reporting back
Seems as reported I jumped the gun, appstore does indeed get broken. As a helper you can use Es file manager, Go into Library and app. You will find the apk there , long hold to highlight then backup / uninstall it will ask you if you would like the factory default apk. All done and returned along with the backup for reinstallation . hope this helps
New AFTV owner
photize said:
Seems as reported I jumped the gun, appstore does indeed get broken. As a helper you can use Es file manager, Go into Library and app. You will find the apk there , long hold to highlight then backup / uninstall it will ask you if you would like the factory default apk. All done and returned along with the backup for reinstallation . hope this helps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have got my AFTV yesterday, I have blocked the amazon urls in my rooter and used opendns as well but still Firetv is updated to the latest version which is 51.1.4.2 I think which is unrootable. Any way I have tried OP's option of getting the aptoide and updating the amazon appstore, which broke the the appstore but all the apps appeared in the apps as OP showed in the image without doing any llama thing etc. but as in previous post I have repaired the amazon appstore and all the view is back to normal for the apps screen. So, I am thinking to update appstore again and restore my apps view which is better for me as a starter but I have to think of a way to get the appstore working for some apps. hope my exercise will someone and if anyone have solution for my problem, please reply. Thanks.

Software Updates — Fire TV v51.1.4.3 & Fire TV Stick v54.1.0.3

The source code for the next software updates for the Fire TV and Fire TV Stick have been posted to Amazon's US source code page. I've already seen word of people receiving these updates, so they've begun rolling out.
If you install the update, let us know if you notice any changes.
Fire TV update version is: 51.1.4.3_user_514020320
Fire TV update download URL is: http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ueller-ota-51.1.4.3_user_514020320-signed.bin
Fire TV Stick update version is: 54.1.0.3_user_103020320
Fire TV Stick update download URL is: http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ed89a/montoya-ota-54.1.0.3_user_103020320.bin
UPDATE:
After comparing this new update to the previous version on both a Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, I've been unable to find any visible changes. Amazon has also now updated their software page and listed "Bug Fixes" as the only change.
AFTVnews.com said:
The source code for the next software updates for the Fire TV and Fire TV Stick have been posted to Amazon's US source code page. I've already seen word of people receiving these updates, so they've begun rolling out.
If you install the update, let us know if you notice any changes.
Fire TV: 51.1.4.3_user_514020320
Fire TV Stick: 54.1.0.3_user_103020320
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what are the changes? Im still on 5.1.1.0.1
cpugeeker said:
what are the changes? Im still on 5.1.1.0.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once I receive the update I'll post a full overview of the changes, as I always do.
Hmm. I wonder if this is the cause of the new problem I've encountered. I have got two AFTV's both of which can't get any Amazon content since this weekend. I get the "Unable to contact our servers" error for the Home, TV, and Movies sections. They both can still get apps and they will download apps that aren't on the boxes. Netflix works fine. And of course Kodi works fine.
If they were supposed to get this update, and Amazon knows they are not updated, could this be the cause of this problem for me? I am in the US so I am not using any VPN to circumvent any geo content restrictions. I'm not even blocking DNS. I wonder if this wouldn't be a problem if I were blocking DNS.
AFTVnews.com said:
The source code for the next software updates for the Fire TV and Fire TV Stick have been posted to Amazon's US source code page. I've already seen word of people receiving these updates, so they've begun rolling out.
If you install the update, let us know if you notice any changes.
Fire TV: 51.1.4.3_user_514020320
Fire TV Stick: 54.1.0.3_user_103020320
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kraqh3d said:
Hmm. I wonder if this is the cause of the new problem I've encountered. I have got two AFTV's both of which can't get any Amazon content since this weekend. I get the "Unable to contact our servers" error for the Home, TV, and Movies sections. They both can still get apps and they will download apps that aren't on the boxes. Netflix works fine. And of course Kodi works fine.
If they were supposed to get this update, and Amazon knows they are not updated, could this be the cause of this problem for me? I am in the US so I am not using any VPN to circumvent any geo content restrictions. I'm not even blocking DNS. I wonder if this wouldn't be a problem if I were blocking DNS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's unlikely that your issue is related to this update. If Amazon were truly going to require this update in order to view content, then they wouldn't have flipped the switch yet. The vast majority of Fire TVs have not received this update yet.
I hope this fixes the bluetooth remote and the high cpu usage running kodi
kraqh3d said:
Hmm. I wonder if this is the cause of the new problem I've encountered. I have got two AFTV's both of which can't get any Amazon content since this weekend. I get the "Unable to contact our servers" error for the Home, TV, and Movies sections. They both can still get apps and they will download apps that aren't on the boxes. Netflix works fine. And of course Kodi works fine.
If they were supposed to get this update, and Amazon knows they are not updated, could this be the cause of this problem for me? I am in the US so I am not using any VPN to circumvent any geo content restrictions. I'm not even blocking DNS. I wonder if this wouldn't be a problem if I were blocking DNS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I get the same problem about twice per week. Unplugging and plugging back in solves the problem I don't know if it is the AFTV or XBMC use causing it.
Download URL for the Fire TV 51.1.4.3_user_514020320 update is: http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ueller-ota-51.1.4.3_user_514020320-signed.bin
( Attention @rbox )
I don't know about the changes yet because I haven't installed it yet. As usual, it's one of my rooted Fire TVs that tried to update first. Once my sacrificial Fire TV updates, I'll be able to see what has changed. My Fire TV Sticks have also not updated yet.
AFTVnews.com said:
Download URL for the Fire TV 51.1.4.3_user_514020320 update is: http://amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuit...ueller-ota-51.1.4.3_user_514020320-signed.bin
( Attention @rbox )
I don't know about the changes yet because I haven't installed it yet. As usual, it's one of my rooted Fire TVs that tried to update first. Once my sacrificial Fire TV updates, I'll be able to see what has changed. My Fire TV Sticks have also not updated yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not at home, but my wife is reporting that the Fire TV Stick (unrooted) won't work because of internet problems. The Internet is fine. I still was blocking the update servers through OpenDNS. I removed the block and I'm waiting for openDNS to allow the connections. I think Amazon is forcing the update on the stick. My other two rooted Fire TVs are off, so I'll have to test when I get home. I disabled the update service on those.
Got the update on the fire tv i don't see any difference what so ever
gonna keep digging
radiohead7778580 said:
Got the update on the fire tv i don't see any difference what so ever
gonna keep digging
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you happen to have a Windows 8.1 machine to check if Miracast works?
Resnoid said:
Would you happen to have a Windows 8.1 machine to check if Miracast works?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have a macbook with bootcamp running windows 8.1 i can check it out!!
I really wish they would fix this issue that i posted on kodi forums its something with the amazon firmware and kodi on both fire tv and stick take a look and let me know what you think
http://forum.kodi.tv/showthread.php?tid=216525
radiohead7778580 said:
I hope this fixes the bluetooth remote and the high cpu usage running kodi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't noticed high CPU usage running Kodi on my AFTV. It runs super smooth.
I use this to launch my Kodi: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=se.blunden.xbmclauncher
Neo3D said:
I haven't noticed high CPU usage running Kodi on my AFTV. It runs super smooth.
I use this to launch my Kodi: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=se.blunden.xbmclauncher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its only happens when you launch it from the settings, manage all user installed apps its seems like its no shutting down some services
radiohead7778580 said:
Its only happens when you launch it from the settings, manage all user installed apps its seems like its no shutting down some services
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give this a try. It frees things up well for me on all my android devices including the FTV.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greatbytes.fastreboot&hl=en
xm41907 said:
Give this a try. It frees things up well for me on all my android devices including the FTV.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greatbytes.fastreboot&hl=en
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will try it for sure... but you guys give int a try loading from the settings menu then click on the cpu usage then launch it from a 3rd party launcher or llama classic tv or ikono tv icon you will see there is something wrong
AFTVnews.com said:
It's unlikely that your issue is related to this update. If Amazon were truly going to require this update in order to view content, then they wouldn't have flipped the switch yet. The vast majority of Fire TVs have not received this update yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mychaelp said:
I get the same problem about twice per week. Unplugging and plugging back in solves the problem I don't know if it is the AFTV or XBMC use causing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. It was unrelated. It seems to have resolved itself without any reboot sometime between my post and this weekend when I went to look at it again. My AFTV's are always running Kodi so I really have no idea how frequently this might occur. I'll keep an eye on it and see if this happens regularly.
also, you dont have to power cycle to reboot. hold the play/pause and select button for a few seconds to reboot.
psycon said:
also, you dont have to power cycle to reboot. hold the play/pause and select button for a few seconds to reboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never knew that. Nice tip!
I've received both updates now (Fire TV & Fire TV Stick) and had a chance to compare them to the previous version. I haven't been able to find any visible changes. Also, Amazon has updated their software pages and officially listed these updates as "Bug Fixes".

Now Patched :( Amazon Fire Utility/Tool Bloat Removal

What is this? What does it do?
I've used my free time to create a noob friendly program to complete task. It can uninstall all Amazon Bloatware. It can also Install Google, Google Chrome, and Google photos. It can install Launcher hijack as well with Nova Launcher WITH widgets WORKING. This has been tested MANY times and confirmed to work on the Fire 7. This can also remove special offers
.
WARNING
I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE. A FACTORY RESET WILL UNDO ALL CHANGES MADE.
Please do not PM me. Post in the forum and quote me if you need help. This way, everybody will receive the information.
Compatibility
This is for Windows only. I have no interest whatsoever do code this for Linux. If you want to port it, go ahead!
Please use Root Junky's Super Tool to install Amazon Drivers on Windows if it isn't working for you. I didn't need to install but you may need to. Click here to download it.
Why Google Photos and Google App?
This tool will install Google Photos because the remove Amazon Bloatware option will uninstall Amazon Photos. You will be using Google Photos instead. In the Camera app, in the bottom right corner where there is a preview, if you press it, it will go right to the Google Photos app if you used the uninstall Amazon Bloat Option.
This also installs the Google App too. Why? In Nova Launcher when you press the Quick Search bar, It will go to the Google App. Only if you use the uninstall Amazon Bloat option. How? It will uninstall the Unified Search package, so it will go to the Google app.
This no longer works on Fire OS 5.4.0.1 unfortunately, the uninstall method has been patched
Click here for the download link
There has been an article featuring my tool. If you want to check it out - link is here.
https://liliputing.com/2017/07/fire-tablet-tool-makes-hacking-amazons-2017-tablets-easier.html
Also I want you to know, if you choose to remove bloat, it will remove every Amazon app exept for the Camera, meaning you will be left with Camera and Settings left on your home screen.
Works, thanks.
Few comments:
If Windows doesn't have the amazon drivers, it won't work.
Installing Google Play Services and Chrome was expected, but it also added Google Photos and Google App.
Either mention it or don't include the last two.
Also, why are you saying to re-install Google Play Services even if they've been installed before?
worked on 5.4.0.0
thanks!
Robius said:
Works, thanks.
Few comments:
If Windows doesn't have the amazon drivers, it won't work.
Installing Google Play Services and Chrome was expected, but it also added Google Photos and Google App.
Either mention it or don't include the last two.
Also, why are you saying to re-install Google Play Services even if they've been installed before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am sorry. It installes Google Photos because the camera app is still there after uninstall. It uninstalls Amazon Photos and you need a photos app to veiw the pictures you took.
It won't reinstall the Google Play apps but it will install Google for you
It installs the Google App because it removes unified search which means on Nova Launcher the Google Search bar actually goes to Google Now instead of the Amazon Search. I am sorry for not mentioning it. I will edit the post.
Thanks!!! used to install google play apps, and installed nova launcher, but the home button is broken though. I wonder if there's any fix for that...
(Gen 5 amazon fire 7, running 5.4.0)
ravenchaser210 said:
Thanks!!! used to install google play apps, and installed nova launcher, but the home button is broken though. I wonder if there's any fix for that...
(Gen 5 amazon fire 7, running 5.4.0)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? I tested this and my homebutton is fine, Are you sure you are on the Fire 5th Generation?
Check in settings > device options > and find where it says device model.
Does it say "Fire (5th Generation" without quotes? it yes, please factory reset and try again.
savvytechwinner said:
Really? I tested this and my homebutton is fine, Are you sure you are on the Fire 5th Generation?
Check in settings > device options > and find where it says device model.
Does it say "Fire (5th Generation" without quotes? it yes, please factory reset and try again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, factory reset and it's working perfectly now, thanks!!
savvytechwinner said:
What is this? What does it do?
I've used my free time to create a noob friendly program to complete task. It can uninstall all Amazon Bloatware. It can also Install Google, Google Chrome, and Google photos. It can install Launcher hijack as well with Nova Launcher WITH widgets WORKING. This has been tested MANY times and confirmed to work on the Fire 7. This can also remove special offers
.
WARNING
I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE. A FACTORY RESET WILL UNDO ALL CHANGES MADE.
Please do not PM me. Post in the forum and quote me if you need help. This way, everybody will receive the information.
Compatibility
This is for Windows only. I have no interest whatsoever do code this for Linux. If you want to port it, go ahead!
Please use Root Junky's Super Tool to install Amazon Drivers on Windows if it isn't working for you. I didn't need to install but you may need to. Click here to download it.
Why Google Photos and Google App?
This tool will install Google Photos because the remove Amazon Bloatware option will uninstall Amazon Photos. You will be using Google Photos instead. In the Camera app, in the bottom right corner where there is a preview, if you press it, it will go right to the Google Photos app if you used the uninstall Amazon Bloat Option.
This also installs the Google App too. Why? In Nova Launcher when you press the Quick Search bar, It will go to the Google App. Only if you use the uninstall Amazon Bloat option. How? It will uninstall the Unified Search package, so it will go to the Google app.
Download Link
Since the Files are 101 MB I am posting a Google Drive Link shared to the public. Here is the link.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B4GUCBOVtmvPeGtwQ3kxWjdHSWs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
v5.3.2.1 tested. Work ok, but go back to original after factory reset.
Just got my 8" with 5.4.0 in the mail yesterday. Updated 9 system updates first, then used this tool.
Everything worked fine. Nova works, google playstore and apps working. No ads on the lockscreen.
The bloat removal actually removed more things than I wanted it to, so I did a factory reset and went into the bat and took out some of the apps that I wanted to stay. Works like a charm.
theflathead said:
Just got my 8" with 5.4.0 in the mail yesterday. Updated 9 system updates first, then used this tool.
Everything worked fine. Nova works, google playstore and apps working. No ads on the lockscreen.
The bloat removal actually removed more things than I wanted it to, so I did a factory reset and went into the bat and took out some of the apps that I wanted to stay. Works like a charm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep in mind this tool doesn't actually remove system (most preinstalled) apps; it simply makes them unavailable and thus invisible to the current user. Akin to drawing the shades when you don't like the weather. The actions are reversible...albeit unlikely if OTA updates are blocked unless Amazon has another back-channel communication mechanism.
Davey126 said:
...albeit unlikely if OTA updates are blocked unless Amazon has another back-channel communication mechanism.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahem...Guest account
DragonFire1024 said:
Ahem...Guest account
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh...
On the Fire 7 there is no guest account, it listed the accounts, no guest one for me
You are using the FIRE 8 HD which does have it I think
I agree, as I say in the tool, OTA REMOVAL is not confirmed.
savvytechwinner said:
Boi...
On the Fire 7 there is no guest account, it listed the accounts, NO guest one.
YOU are using the FIRE 8 HD which does have it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That makes no sense to not have one then and have one now.
DragonFire1024 said:
That makes no sense to not have one then and have one now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On your Fire 8 HD there is a guess account
on the Fire 7 (5th Generation) there isn't a guest account
at least on my tablet, plus I don't even think the guest account is active. But it could be, no garentee
savvytechwinner said:
On your Fire 8 HD there is a guess account
on the Fire 7 (5th Generation) there isn't a guest account
at least on my tablet, plus I don't even think the guest account is active. But it could be, no garentee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's under settings, users in activity launcher. Something activated it and I don't know what. Perhaps it's only available before everything is disabled. Either way, I see it in the user list, but I haven't been able to activate it again or for that matter disable it. Im likely to do another reset in the next day or so now that the kinks are being worked out. Hopefully the last one for a bit.
Back to wallpapers...the permission to run live wallpapers is already active in at least my tablet, of course in the damn system. I don't get Amazon. They don't want us to use them, but give the permission to, just not the APKs. They basically consider widgets a sin, but give you the activation script in front of your face. Makes me wonder if they really are sloppy, or there's a silent revolt going on internally. Either way those are pretty lame mistakes. I wonder how they're taking this being able to disable their apps.
DragonFire1024 said:
Back to wallpapers...the permission to run live wallpapers is already active in at least my tablet, of course in the damn system. I don't get Amazon. They don't want us to use them, but give the permission to, just not the APKs. They basically consider widgets a sin, but give you the activation script in front of your face. Makes me wonder if they really are sloppy, or there's a silent revolt going on internally. Either way those are pretty lame mistakes. I wonder how they're taking this being able to disable their apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- this is an Amazon centric appliance - not a general purpose Android device
- 'good enough' probably comes into play (time/budget constraints)
- a minute sliver of Fire 7 owners will attempt to uninstall core Amazon apps unless it becomes bulletproof w/substantial advantages and no side effects
Love posts like this that pit a virtual army of heroic XDA script kiddies against evil Amazon engineers in an epic battle to control a dime store gizmo. Magnify the real business impact 1000X and you might score a footnote in some unread briefing.
Davey126 said:
- this is an Amazon centric appliance - not a general purpose Android device
- 'good enough' probably comes into play (time/budget constraints)
- a minute sliver of Fire 7 owners will attempt to uninstall core Amazon apps unless it becomes bulletproof w/substantial advantages and no side effects
Love posts like this that pit a virtual army of heroic XDA script kiddies against evil Amazon engineers in an epic battle to control a dime store gizmo. Magnify the real business impact 1000X and you might score a footnote in some unread briefing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who ever said anything about being a hero much less anything about Amazon being evil? Dime store or 5th Avenue...what difference does it make? I believe we should have the freedom to control what we rightfully own. Whatever comes of this, or that, or whatever we do, so be it. If it makes a dozen or so people a lot happier with a product they own, and that's considered 'heroic', then ok. Call it what you like. I can't count the times I've stated this is fun for me and a learning experience.
But hey, you have a good story line in a plot that goes beyond Amazon. Sounds like something I'd want to read about anyways. It's one of many battles. Small as it may be, a win is a win.
EDIT: Amazon just customized it. Within a matter of days, we've but thrown out much of that customization. When, or if we ever get root, I'd much like to spend time actually customizing it myself. Much of it can be undone by simple edits if you know where to make them. I've learned a lot in the past week, where many of those edits can be made.
theflathead, is your new Fire 8 the 7th Gen Fire HD 8?
theflathead said:
Just got my 8" with 5.4.0 in the mail yesterday. Updated 9 system updates first, then used this tool.
Everything worked fine. Nova works, google playstore and apps working. No ads on the lockscreen.
The bloat removal actually removed more things than I wanted it to, so I did a factory reset and went into the bat and took out some of the apps that I wanted to stay. Works like a charm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you do this on a NEW FIRE HD 8, 7th Generation???
You said you just got it, and so did I, got the OS upgrade to 5.4.0, and hoping I can use this approach. Thanks in advance. . .
Paul
I just did it on my 7th Gen, blue 7" Amazon Kindle and everything worked. You have to read the directions and go to accessbility settings and enable detecting home button press, otherwise the home button won't work on the launcher.

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