VLC media player, known for its flexibility and wide compatibility, is a popular choice among users for playing various multimedia files. However, if you own an Amazon FireStick, you might wonder if it is possible to enjoy this versatile media player on your device. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how you can get VLC on your FireStick and unlock a world of entertainment possibilities.
Amazon FireStick is a popular streaming device that allows you to access numerous entertainment apps and services. While it offers a wide range of media options, the default video player may not always meet your needs. This is where VLC media player comes into the picture, offering a user-friendly interface, extensive file compatibility, and numerous advanced features. If you’re eager to enhance your FireStick experience and enjoy seamless playback of various audio and video formats, follow this guide to easily install VLC on your FireStick device.
Understanding The Importance Of VLC Media Player On FireStick
The VLC Media Player is an essential app for FireStick users who want to enhance their entertainment experience. VLC is a versatile media player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats. It allows you to play media files directly from various sources, including local storage, network streams, and even DVDs.
One of the major advantages of VLC on FireStick is its ability to handle almost any video file format, eliminating the need for users to convert files beforehand. It also supports subtitles, multiple audio tracks, and playback speed control, providing a customizable viewing experience.
Moreover, VLC is completely free and open-source software, making it a popular choice among users. It comes equipped with advanced features like media conversion, video and audio filters, and streaming options, making it an all-in-one solution for your media needs.
By installing VLC on your FireStick, you can enjoy seamless playback of your favorite movies, TV shows, music, and more. Whether you want to stream content or play local files, VLC is a must-have app to transform your FireStick into a powerful media player.
Step 1: Enabling Installation From Unknown Sources On FireStick
Enabling installation from unknown sources on FireStick is a crucial step in getting VLC Media Player on your device. By default, FireStick blocks the installation of apps from third-party sources to maintain security. However, VLC is not available on the official Amazon Appstore, so you need to enable this option manually. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Navigate to the home screen of your FireStick and select “Settings” from the menu at the top.
2. Scroll to the right and choose “My Fire TV” or “Device” (depending on your FireStick version).
3. Open “Developer options” from the list of available options.
4. If the “Apps from Unknown Sources” option is turned off, click on it to enable installation from unknown sources.
5. A warning message may appear; just click “Turn On” to proceed.
6. You have successfully enabled installation from unknown sources on your FireStick.
Now that you have enabled this option, you can proceed to the next step of downloading and installing the Downloader app on your FireStick.
Step 2: Downloading And Installing The Downloader App On FireStick
The second step in getting VLC on your FireStick is to download and install the Downloader app. This app is essential for downloading files and sideloading them onto your FireStick device. Here’s how you can do it:
1. On your FireStick home screen, navigate to the search bar in the top left corner.
2. Type in “Downloader” using the virtual keyboard and select it from the search results.
3. Click on the “Downloader” app icon and press the “Download” button to begin the installation.
4. Once the app is installed, click on the “Open” button to launch the Downloader app.
5. In the Downloader app, you’ll see a URL field. Click on it to bring up the on-screen keyboard.
6. Now, enter the following URL: “https://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-firetv.html” using the keyboard.
7. After entering the URL, click on the “Go” button and wait for the website to load within the Downloader app.
8. Scroll down to find the download link for VLC and click on it to start the download process.
9. Once the download is complete, the installer file for VLC will automatically open.
10. Click on the “Install” button to begin the installation process of VLC on your FireStick device.
That’s it! You have successfully downloaded and installed the Downloader app, which will help you in the next step of getting VLC on your FireStick.
Step 3: Using The Downloader App To Download VLC On FireStick
VLC Media Player is a versatile and popular media player that allows you to stream and play various media formats on your FireStick device. To download VLC on your FireStick, you will need to use the Downloader app, which is an essential tool for sideloading applications onto FireStick.
1. Launch the Downloader app: Go to the FireStick home screen and navigate to the “Search” option. Type in “Downloader” using the on-screen keyboard and select the app from the search results. Click on the app icon to launch it.
2. Allow app access: If prompted, allow the Downloader app to access media files on your device.
3. Enter the VLC download URL: In the Downloader app’s home screen, you will find a text field to enter the URL. Type in the following URL: “https://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-firetv.html” and click on the “Go” button.
4. Download VLC: The Downloader app will connect to the provided URL and initiate the downloading process. Wait for the download to complete.
5. Install VLC: Once the download finishes, the Downloader app will automatically prompt you to install VLC. Click on the “Install” button to start the installation process.
6. Launch VLC: After the installation is complete, you can find the VLC Media Player icon in the “Your Apps & Channels” section of the FireStick home screen. Select the VLC icon to launch the media player and start exploring its features.
Using the Downloader app to download VLC on FireStick is a simple and efficient way to enhance your media streaming experience on your device.
Step 4: Sideloading VLC Onto FireStick Using The Downloader App
VLC Media Player is a versatile and popular media player that is a must-have on any FireStick device. However, VLC is not available for direct download from the Amazon Appstore. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of sideloading VLC onto your FireStick using the Downloader app.
To begin, make sure you have successfully downloaded and installed the Downloader app on your FireStick. If you haven’t, refer to Step 2 of this guide.
Once you have the Downloader app ready, follow these steps:
1. Open the Downloader app on your FireStick.
2. In the URL field, enter the following URL to download the APK file for VLC: [insert URL]
3. Wait for the download to complete. Once finished, click on the “Install” button.
4. After the installation is complete, you will see a confirmation message.
5. Select “Open” to launch VLC Media Player on your FireStick.
By sideloading VLC onto your FireStick, you can enjoy an extensive media playback experience. Whether it’s streaming videos, playing music, or viewing photos, VLC has got you covered.
Step 5: Navigating And Accessing VLC Media Player On FireStick
After successfully sideloading VLC onto your FireStick using the Downloader app, you can now navigate and access VLC Media Player. Here’s how to do it:
1. From the FireStick home screen, go to “Your Apps & Channels” located on the top menu.
2. Scroll down and find the VLC Media Player app icon. It should appear in the list of installed apps.
3. Highlight the VLC Media Player app and press the Select button on your FireStick remote to launch the app.
4. Once VLC Media Player opens, you will see a user-friendly interface with several options.
5. To explore and play media files, use the navigation buttons on your FireStick remote.
6. To access media files stored on your FireStick or other devices connected to your network, navigate to the left sidebar and click on “Local Network.”
7. From the Local Network section, you can access any media files shared on your local network, including computers, NAS drives, or any other storage device.
8. Simply select the desired file, and VLC will start playing it on your FireStick.
Congratulations! You have successfully navigated and accessed VLC Media Player on your FireStick. Enjoy your favorite media content with this versatile media player.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I download VLC on my FireStick?
To download VLC on your FireStick, go to the Amazon Appstore and search for “VLC for Fire”. Click on the VLC app and then select “Get” or “Download” to install it on your FireStick.
2. Can I stream videos from my computer to VLC on FireStick?
Yes, you can stream videos from your computer to VLC on FireStick. Install the VLC media player on your computer and make sure both your FireStick and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Open VLC on FireStick and select the “Local Network” option. Your computer’s shared folders will be displayed, allowing you to stream videos to your FireStick.
3. Is VLC free to use on FireStick?
Yes, VLC is completely free to use on FireStick. It is an open-source media player that supports various video and audio formats, making it a popular choice for FireStick users.
4. Can I use VLC to play online streaming services on FireStick?
VLC is primarily a media player and does not directly support online streaming services on FireStick. However, you can use VLC to play locally stored video files or stream videos from your computer or network-attached storage (NAS) devices.
5. How can I update VLC on FireStick?
To update VLC on FireStick, open the Amazon Appstore and go to the “Updates” tab. If an update is available for VLC, it will be listed there. Click on the “Update” button next to VLC to install the latest version. Alternatively, you can also enable auto-updates for apps on your FireStick to automatically receive updates for VLC.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, installing VLC on your FireStick is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your media streaming experience. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily download and set up VLC on your device, allowing you to play a wide variety of media formats with ease. Whether you want to watch videos, listen to music, or view photos, VLC offers a versatile and user-friendly solution for FireStick users.
Additionally, VLC’s extensive customization options and support for various streaming protocols make it a popular choice among media enthusiasts. With VLC on your FireStick, you can enjoy seamless playback, fast streaming, and the ability to adjust audio and video settings according to your preferences. Overall, adding VLC to your FireStick is a worthwhile endeavor that can greatly enhance your media streaming capabilities and provide an enhanced viewing experience.