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Have you been looking for a way to download movies or apps on your FireStick? I am sure you want to download certain apps but can’t find them on the Amazon App Store.
If you want to sideload your FireStick and download third-party applications, you will need the Downloader app.
The Downloader App by AFTV News is a popular sideloading app used by millions of FireStick users. Asides from Downloader, ES File Explorer is a good option for downloading 3rd party apps on your Fire TV device.
However, Downloader is a popular option and is used by many cord-cutters worldwide. Downloader is easy to use and is a quick way to download apps on Amazon FireStick devices, including FireTV Lite, Fire TV Cube, Fire TV 2nd & 3rd Generation, FireTV Stick 4K, and more.
Many people are not familiar with the Downloader. If you don’t know how to install Downloader on FireStick or you want to learn how to use Downloader to sideload FireStick application, you should consider reading this guide as it will tell you everything you need to know.
What is Downloader?
Downloader is a popular app for sideloading third-party apps on FireTV Stick devices. Many FireStick users are limited to using only the apps on the Amazon Store. Those who wish to download Firestick apps outside the Amazon Store can do so with Downloader.
Downloader is a versatile app with various functions and features. Apart from downloading third-party apps, this app offers other features such as a browser for surfing the net, file access, download manager, etc.
You can use the Downloader built-in browser to visit any website, forum, or social media platform. Although this browser isn’t as robust as the Amazon Silk Browser, it can help download files and APKs from the internet. The Favorites tab in the app allows you bookmark or save the sites or pages you frequently visit.
The interface is friendly and easy to use. You don’t need a keyboard to use Downloader because it has a built-in mouse that helps you scroll and navigate the interface with ease.
The Downloader app runs on the Android OS and is compatible for Android-based TVs and FireStick devices. Also, it is completely free to use but that’s not all. The most significant feature of this app is that it allow users download apps without going through the stress of opening several pages.
Downloader helps to sideload apps that are unavailable in Amazon Store. Thousands of users jailbreak their FireStick device so as to install third-party APKs and applications with a single click. Using Downloader to sideload app will save you a lot of time; all that you need is a link or URL of the file you want to download.
This sideloading application also provides codes known as Downloader codes that help you install APK files quickly and easily. Downloader works on all streaming devices running on the Android operating system.
Some of the streaming devices using Android OS include:
- Amazon FireStick (All models).
- Fire TV, FireTV Cube, and all Fire TV models.
- Android phones and tablets.
- NVIDIA Shield (all models).
- Generic Android TV Boxes.
- Chromecast with Google TV.
- MECOOL Boxes.
- Tivo Stream 4K.
- Raspberry Pi.
- Windows PC and Mac (with Android emulator apps)
If you are using an Apple or Roku device, you can’t use Downloader on it because these platforms run on different operating systems, which won’t work with the Downloader app. If you want to use Downloader, you can try any of the aforementioned devices.
In this guide, I will be sharing steps on how to install Downloader on every device that runs on the Android OS.
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How To Install Downloader on FireStick or Fire TV
Many Fire TV users don’t know where to download Downloader or how to install it, so it’s necessary to guide you and show you the process. We have provided some instructions below, which you must follow to install Downloader on your Fire TV device.
Regardless of your FireStick version, be it a Fire TV Cube or FireStick 4K, follow the steps below:
- Step 1: Open your FireStick home screen.
- Step 2: Hover over the Find option on the menu.
- Step 3: Search.
- Step 4: Use the keyboard and type in Downloader.
- Step 5: Search for the Downloader app.
- Step 6: Select the app.
- Step 7: Click the Download button to download the app on your FireStick.
- Step 8: Give the app sometime to install.
- Step 9: Click Open after the app has finished installing.
- Step 10: Return to your FireStick home screen.
- Step 11: Click Settings.
- Step 12: Select My Fire TV.
- Step 13: Choose Developer Options.
Note: In case you couldn’t find the Developer Options menu on your screen, check out the next section below.
- Step 14: Click on Install Unknown Apps.
- Step 15: Locate the Downloader application from the options and click it.
- Step 16: Turn on the Apps from Unknown Sources option. Doing this will sideload your device and help you download or use apps from unknown or third-party sources.
How To Enable Developer Options on FireStick
If you didn’t see the developer option in your FireStick settings, the instructions will help you enable the feature.
1. Click the Settings icon.
2. Select My Fire TV.
3. Click About.
4. Hover over Fire TV Click.
5. Click the OK button on your FireStick remote seven times to enable the developer options.
6. When you press the back or return button on your remote, you will see the Developer Options.
Now that you’ve enabled the Developer Options in your FireStick settings, you can complete the Downloader installation.
How To Install Downloader on Android Smartphones and Tablets
You can use Downloader on your Android tablet or phone. In this tutorial, we will be using the Samsung Galaxy S6 Tablet but the same steps applies to all Android phones and tablets.
1. Go to Settings.
2. Click Apps.
Select Google Chrome or any internet browser of your choice.
4. Swipe up to scroll down and click on Install Unknown apps.
5. Tap the toggle to turn on Unknown Sources from this app.
6. Go back to the home screen and open the browser.
7. Type troypoint.com.com/dl in the search bar and enter.
8. Click OK.
9. Give it some time to install and click Open.
10. Click on Install.
11. Click Done.
13. Return to the settings to find Downloader and click the toggle to enable the unknown sources option.
14. Open the Downloader app.
15. You will see an on-screen prompt. Click Allow.
By completing these steps, you can sideload apps on your Android tablet or smartphone with Downloader.
How To Install Downloader on Android TV
You can also install Downloader on Android TV if you use one. This procedure works with all Android TVs, including MECOOL Boxes, Mi Boxes, NVIDIA Shield, Dynalink, Tivo Stream 4L, and others.
Follow these steps:
1. Go to the home screen.
2. Find the Google Play Store app and open it.
3. Click the Search icon.
4. Type “Downloader” and enter.
5. Select the Downloader by AFVNews app.
6. Click the Install button.
7. Return to the home screen after the app is installed.
8. Click Settings.
9. Scroll down and select Device Preferences.
10. Click Security & Restrictions.
11. Click Unknown Sources.
12. Find the Downloader app option and click it.
By completing these steps, you have enabled Downloader to sideload your device applications.
How To Install Downloader on Stock Android
It is crucial to inform you that devices running on Stock Android OS have a different method for sideload apps.
To start with, you need a browser such as Google Chrome or any web browser that allows for downloading of files and apps.
If you own or use a generic Android TV Box such as Beelink GT-King, T95q, X96 Max, or other boxes, you must follow the steps below to install Downloader.
1. Go to your Android TV Box Settings.
2. Click on Security & restrictions.
3. Choose Unknown Sources.
4. Select Google Chrome or the browser you are using to enable installation of unknown applications. As a rule of thumb, you want to make sure your FileBrowser is allowed as well.
5. Open the web browser.
6. Click the Search bar.
7. Enter the URL – “troypoint.com/dl” and Enter.
8. Click on Continue after seeing the on-screen prompt.
9. Select Allow.
10. Click on Download.
11. When the file finished downloading, you will receive a message saying, “Downloader APK downloaded.” Return to your home screen after seeing this message.
12. Choose FileBrowser or your default file manager app.
13. Click Local Disk.
14. Find the Download folder and open it.
15. Click the Downloader APK file you recently downloaded.
16. Click Install.
17. Click Done.
18. Now, return to your home screen and click Settings.
19. Click the Security & Restrictions option.
20. Click Unknown Sources. Find Downloader and click it to enable the installation of unknown applications to your device.
Following these steps will allow Downloader to sideload apps on your Stock Android device.
How To Install Downloader on Chromecast With Google TV Device
If you are one of those using the Chromecast with Google TV device, follow the steps below to install Downloader.
1. Go to the main menu.
2. Click on Apps.
3. Click Search for Apps.
4. Click the search bar, enter the word “Downloader“, and hit the search icon.
5. Select Downloader by AFTVnews under Apps.
6. Click on Install.
7. Return to the home screen after installing the app.
8. Click on Settings.
9. Select System.
10. Click About.
11. Click Android TV OS build seven consecutive times.
12. After clicking it for seven times, you will see the message “you are now a developer”.
13. Click the back button on your remote and return to the Settings menu.
14. Click Apps.
15. Select Security & Restrictions.
16. Choose Unknown Sources.
17. Enable the Unknown sources option for the Downloader application.
Following these steps will enable you sideload any application on your Chromecast with Google TV.
How To Download Apps On FireStick and Fire TV Using Downloader
It’s one thing to have Downloader on your device and it’s another thing to know how to use it. If you are using Downloader for the first time, you need to be guided on how to use it.
Some users face issues accessing the recently installed apps folder, which prevents them from installing the APK files they downloaded. If you are experiencing this challenge, navigate to the Your Apps & Channels menu and click on See All to find all installed applications.
In this section, I will show you how to download third-party apps and files on FireStick with Downloader. To download apps using Downloader, you must turn on the Apps from Unknown Sources option in your Firestick settings. This is because by default, FireStick doesn’t allow users to download apps or files from the internet.
Here’s how to enable the Apps from Unknown Source option on FireStick:
- Click on Settings from your firestick home screen.
- Select My Fire TV.
- Click on Developer Options.
- Scroll down until you get to the Apps From Unknown Sources option, and click it.
- You will see a warning message. Ignore the message and proceed by clicking the Turn on or Enable button.
Voila! That’s how you enable apps from unknown sources on Fire TV Stick. By enabling this feature, you can easily download any app or file from the internet. I am sure you have lots of third-party streaming apps you want to download to watch free movies on firestick.
That’s not all. I will show you how to use Downloader by AFTVnews to download any app on firestick. In this guide, I will show you install Cinema HD on FireStick. Cinema HD is a third-party app that provides various channels for news, movies, sports, entertainment, and live TV for free.
All you have to do is follow the steps below to sideload any app on FireStick.
Go to Your Apps & Channels to find the Downloader app and launch the app. If you are opening th the app for the first time, you will be made to allow permission for it to access your photos, files, and media content. Click the Allow button when you see the prompt.
As a new user, you will see a quick tour guide showing you how to use the Downloader app. You can follow the tutorial by clicking the Got it button or ignore it by clicking the Dismiss button.
When you get to the Downloader home screen, you will see a box and a list of options of the left-hand menu. Navigate to the box and click the Select button to open the virtual keyboard. You will enter the URL of the file or app you want to download. Since we are downloading the Cinema HD app, enter this URL – https://bit.ly/34uGNOt and press the Go button.
Once you click the Go button, the file or app you want to download will start downloading. If you entered the wrong URL, you may face errors and have issues downloading it but if the URL is correct, the system will connect to the server and initiate the downloading process.
You will wait for a while, depending on your internet speed. After the app is downloaded, an installation window will appear on your screen. Click the Install button to start the app installation. It takes only a few seconds to install apps. Once the app has been installed, click Done.
After that, the Downloader app will present three options for you to choose from. Click the Delete button to remove the APK file and save some space in your FireStick storage. Click the Delete button again for confirmation.
By deleting the APK files of the apps you download, you will not run of storage quickly. Additionally, it can prevent your FireStick from overheating or taking time to load applications.
How To Protect Yourself When Using Downloader
Most third-party apps downloaded using the Downloader app aren’t verified, so you need to be cautious while using this app.
If you will be using Downloader to download free streaming apps, you must install a VPN like ExpressVPN to protect your online activity.
Your web traffic and internet activity can be tracked through your IP address. However, using a premium VPN service shields your device and prevent people from snooping your online activity.
Downloader Vs ES File Explorer: Which Is Better?
Downloader and ES File Explorer are commonly used for sideloading apps on FireStick. Downloader is used by several people because it is easy to use and comes with extra features such as a built-in web browser, Download Manager, and more.
Moreover, Downloader is a great option for people who don’t have money to spend on a premium sideloading app.
On the other hand, ES File Explorer provides more features than Downloader and is arguably the best application for sideloading third-party Firestick apps. ES File Explorer has an edge over Downloader because of its robust set of features such as Download Manager, File Manager, Windows Sharing, FTP Share, and more.
ES File Explorer is a file manager app but is capable of sideloading 3rd party apps. By default, FireStick doesn’t have a file manager app, so ES File Explorer is the go-to option for those who want a file manager app to delete or organize their files.
However, ES File Explorer is a premium app; it also has a free version but this version doesn’t offer the Download Manager or sideloading features.
See the table below for comparison between the Downloader and ES File Manager app.
| FEATURES | DOWNLOADER | ES FILE MANAGER |
| App Cache Cleaner | No | Yes |
| User-friendly | Yes | No |
| Easy To Use | Yes | Yes |
| Fast Downloading | Yes | No |
| Direct Downloads | No | Yes |
| FTP Share | No | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | No |
| Default Video Player | No | Yes |
| Space Analyzer | No | Yes |
| Free To Use | Yes | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Downloader by AFTVnews?
Downloader is a tool used for sideloading and downloading mostly third-party apps that are not found in the Amazon App Store.
Is Downloader Free to Use?
Downloader is completely free to use on any device, including Android TVs, Android Boxes, Chromecast, NVIDIA Shield, Fire TV Cube, and FireStick 4K devices. This app was created for users to download third-party apps and files from the internet.
Can I Use Downloader on FireStick?
Downloader is available on all FireStick models.
Is Downloader Safe?
Downloader is legal and safe to use. Although the app won’t steal your data and information, you are advised to always use a VPN if you intend download or stream movies on your FireStick device. Using a VPN guarantee you of an anonymous streaming experience.
What Is The Best App for Sideloading FireStick Apps?
Downloader is a popular sideloading app on FireStick but if you want a sideloading app with extra features, you should try ES File Explorer.
You must purchase the pro or premium version of ES File Explorer if you want to use it to sideload applications. Other than that, Downloader is free to use and won’t cost you a dime.
Conclusion
Downloader remains the best option for people who don’t want to spend money sideloading apps on FireStick. It’s highly useful as it features a built-in web browser and is used for downloading third-party apps.
As a rule of thumb, remember to use a VPN to protect your online privacy as some third-party apps may steal sensitive information such as your login credentials, credit card details, etc. We recommend ExpressVPN due to its top-notch security and encryption.
We hope you found this article helpful in learning how to install Downloader on FireStick.