Get Back Developer Options on FireStick: In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to enable Developer Options on FireStick and Fire TV devices. This setting is crucial if you want to turn on ADB debugging or install apps from unknown sources. The instructions in this guide apply to all models, including FireStick Lite, FireStick HD, FireStick 4K, FireStick 4K Max, and Fire TV Cube.
Why Developer Options Matter on FireStick
One of the standout features of the Amazon FireStick is its flexibility—especially its ability to install third-party apps. However, by default, Amazon restricts installations from unknown sources. To work around this and “jailbreak” your FireStick for sideloading apps, you need access to the Developer Options menu.
Within this menu, you can enable:
- ADB Debugging
- Apps from Unknown Sources
Both are necessary for sideloading and customizing your Fire TV device beyond the standard app store offerings.
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Why Can’t I See Developer Options on My FireStick?
In earlier versions of Fire TV OS, the Developer Options menu was easily accessible via Settings > My Fire TV. However, starting with Fire TV OS version 7.2.8.5, this option no longer appears by default on some devices. Despite its disappearance, the Developer Options setting is still available—you just need to unlock it manually. If Developer Options seem to be missing from your device, don’t worry. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to restore access and continue sideloading your favorite third-party streaming apps. Would you like me to continue with the step-by-step instructions on how to reveal Developer Options?
How to Restore Developer Options on Amazon FireStick
Follow these simple steps to make the Developer Options reappear on your FireStick or Fire TV device:
- From the FireStick or Fire TV home screen, select Settings.
- Navigate to My Fire TV.
- If you don’t see Developer Options listed, click on About.
- Now, highlight your Fire TV Stick device name and press the select button quickly 7 times.
- You’ll see a notification at the bottom of the screen saying, “No need; you are already a developer.” This confirms that Developer Options have been enabled.
- Press the back button once or return to Settings > My Fire TV. You should now see Developer Options listed.
With Developer Options back, you can now enable Apps from Unknown Sources and ADB Debugging, which are essential for installing third-party apps. Enabling Developer Options is highly recommended if you plan to stream content through free or low-cost apps on your FireStick.
How to Stream Anonymously on FireStick
Once your FireStick is ready with the right apps, it’s important to protect your privacy while streaming. Without protection, your ISP and government can monitor your streaming activities, which might lead to legal trouble if you stream copyrighted content. The best way to stay safe is by using a reliable VPN on your FireStick. A VPN masks your real IP address (for example, something like 2401:4900:881a:d773:b81e:48f5:6fe5:ef1f) and helps you bypass ISP throttling, geo-restrictions, and online surveillance. I personally recommend ExpressVPN, known for its speed, security, and ease of use. It works seamlessly with all streaming apps and is easy to install on any Fire TV or FireStick device.
How to Set Up ExpressVPN on FireStick
- Step 1: Subscribe to ExpressVPN. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.
- Step 2: Turn on your FireStick and go to Find > Search.
- Step 3: Type ExpressVPN into the search bar and select it from the results.
- Step 4: Click Download to install the ExpressVPN app.
- Step 5: Open the app and log in using your ExpressVPN account credentials.
- Step 6: Click the Power icon to connect to a VPN server. Your connection is now secure with one of the fastest and most reliable VPNs for FireStick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Developer Options on a Firestick
You will find developer options in the Settings > My Fire TV > About. Highlight “Fire TV Stick” and press the select button 7 times. This unlocks the Developer Options menu. It is under My Fire TV.
Why does Firestick hide Developer Options?
Firestick hides Developer Options to prevent accidental changes by regular users that could affect device performance or security. These settings are mainly intended for advanced users or developers. By requiring a manual unlock, Amazon ensures only those who need the features access them. This helps maintain a safer and more stable user experience.
How can I enable Developer Options on a Firestick?
To enable Developer Options on your Firestick, go to Settings > My Fire TV > About. Highlight the device name (e.g., “Fire TV Stick”) and press the select button 7 times. A notification will confirm that Developer Options are now enabled. You’ll then see it listed under the My Fire TV menu.
Wrapping Up
After the Fire TV OS update 7.2.8.5, Developer Options disappeared from certain devices. Fortunately, you can restore this setting by following the simple steps outlined above. Feel free to share your experience in the comments below and let us know if you successfully regained access to Developer Options on your Fire TV.
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