11 Effective Solutions for Fixing Fire TV Stuck on Downloading Latest Software Update

ByJim Miller

Is your Fire TV Stick stuck on the downloading latest software update screen? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many users encounter this issue where their Firestick keeps looping through the installing updates screen. Fortunately, there are several simple solutions to fix this problem. In this article, we will explore 11 effective methods to resolve the Fire TV Stick stuck on downloading the latest software update issue.

1. Wait for 15-20 Minutes

Fire TV Stick updates usually take around 15-20 minutes to install completely. So, it's worth waiting for the specified time. If the Firestick continues to stay on the downloading latest software screen, then you can try the following solutions.

2. Restart Firestick

First, try restarting your Firestick by holding the Select and Play/Pause buttons simultaneously for 10-15 seconds until you see the “Your device is powering off” message on the TV. The Fire TV Stick will automatically restart.

3. Remove Firestick from HDMI Port

If the Fire TV Stick keeps getting stuck on the downloading update screen, try removing it from the HDMI port and plugging it back in. Sometimes, this simple action can fix the Firestick stuck on updating issue.

4. Change HDMI Port

If removing the Fire TV Stick didn't help, try changing its HDMI port. Disconnect the Firestick from the current HDMI port and plug it into another HDMI port on the back or side of your TV.

5. Change USB Cable

Using a non-compatible USB cable with the Firestick can often cause problems like the Fire TV Stick being stuck on the logo, updating, or loading screen. Therefore, try changing the USB cable of your Firestick.

6. Connect Fire TV Stick to Power Supply

While it's possible to run the Firestick by connecting the USB cable to your TV, this can sometimes cause issues because the TV may not supply the required power. To avoid this, plug the Fire TV Stick directly into a wall outlet or use a power strip/extension cord with the Amazon adapter instead of relying on the TV's power.

7. Bring Fire TV Stick Closer to Wi-Fi

If your TV is far away from your Wi-Fi router, your Firestick may not be receiving a strong Wi-Fi signal. This could be the reason why the Fire TV Stick is stuck on installing the update screen. Try moving the TV closer to the router or connect it to a TV that is located near the Wi-Fi router.

8. Turn off VPN

If you are using a VPN, try turning it off. VPNs can sometimes interfere with the update process on the Fire TV Stick.

9. Check Available Storage

Firestick devices require at least 500MB of storage to install and update the software. If the free storage is less than that, you may face issues like the Firestick being stuck on updating. To check Firestick storage and free up space, follow these steps:

  1. Select the Settings icon on the home screen of your Fire TV Stick.
  2. Go to My Fire TV.
  3. Select About.
  4. Choose Storage. You will see the storage details.
  5. If the storage is full, go back to Fire Stick Settings and select Applications.
  6. Go to Manage installed applications.
  7. You will see a list of installed apps. Uninstall unnecessary apps to free up space on your Firestick.

10. Take the Risk of Unplugging the Firestick

If your Firestick has been stuck on the downloading latest software screen for an extended period, like more than half an hour, and it warns you not to unplug the power, you can consider taking the risk of unplugging it. Some users on the Amazon Forum have reported that turning off the power supply for the Firestick when it was stuck on updating fixed the issue for them.

Please note that it's not recommended to remove or unplug the Firestick during the update process. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.

11. Factory Reset Firestick

If none of the above methods helped in resolving the downloading latest software screen issue, you can try resetting your Fire TV Stick. However, keep in mind that resetting the Firestick will erase your account information and downloaded content from the device.

To reset the Firestick, press and hold the Back button and the button on the right side of the navigation circle together for 8-10 seconds. A pop-up will appear on the screen, indicating that the Firestick will reset after a few seconds. Wait for a while, and the Firestick will automatically reset.

Now that you have successfully resolved the issue with your Fire TV Stick, you can explore the best apps to install on your Firestick and learn how to mirror your iPhone, Android, or Windows device to your Fire TV Stick.