Amazon makes major change to Fire TV Sticks that makes free content easier to find
AMAZON has made a major change to its Fire TV Sticks, making it easier to find free content.
The US firm has introduced “transparency” which makes it clear whether a particular TV show or film you have searched for, or is being recommended to you, is included in your subscription package or if it is a video-on-demand.
This function is coming to both Amazon’s Fire TVs and Fire TV Sticks, including the latest 4k Max Stick.
The information can be found in the show or movie’s mini detail page, which gives you more information about the title.
Underneath the show or TV title and above its synopsis, you’ll now see a new indicator which lets you know if it is included in your subscription, if it’s available for free with ads option, or if it’s a rental or purchase-only option.
Other improvements have been made as well.
Along with the improved transparency, Amazon has made some upgrades to other areas of the user interface.
A new Top Results row has been added which will show the five most likely results when you search.
So, if you search for comedy films, you’ll see five recommendations which are based on a mix of your own viewing and search history as well as what’s popular and what is currently trending.
The Continue Watching row has also been expanded too.
When it started last year it included content from a range of streaming apps including Prime Video, Freevee, MGM Plus, Max and STARZ.
Now, Hulu and Tubi have been added to the list with Amazon also saying that Disney Plus will be coming soon as well.
Another new feature is the browser-based virtual keyboard and remote which allows you to type and control your TV from your phone.
Whenever the on-screen keyboard appears it’ll also show a QR code that can be used to call up the browser-based keyboard on your phone.
Where to buy a Fire TV Stick
Fire TV Sticks are an easy way to add streaming to an older television. They’re manufactured by Amazon, but you can buy them from a number of different stores.
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The feature, similar to the one in the Apple TV 4K when used with an iPhone, should make text input much faster.
Meanwhile, an Amazon Fire TV Stick user reveals six “fantastic apps” for free streaming of “tons of content” including popular movies.
Amazon Fire TV Stick users can also try a lesser-known app to get free content.
We explain the difference between Fire TV Stick Lite vs Fire TV Stick.
Amazon Fire TV Stick owners have also been warned their bank accounts risk being raided amid a fresh crackdown on illegal streaming.