Amazon Firestick is a media streaming device that lets you play music, stream videos, and install apps on your TV. The Firestick runs on the Android platform and can convert a normal TV into a smart TV. With a reliable internet connection, you can enjoy a wide range of content found online, including Netflix.
So, how long do Firestick updates take? Amazon Firestick updates take between 5-15 minutes. When updating, you will see a message on your screen saying the device is updating the software. You are warned against unplugging the power socket when Amazon Firestick is updating because it will cancel it. Depending on your internet speed, the update could be done in less than 5 minutes. Remember that Amazon Firestick works best with Wi-Fi networks rather than cellular data. Therefore, you should get your internet settings right to avoid inconveniences.
If you have a standard TV and would like to enjoy smart TV features, Amazon Firestick will get the job done. This sophisticated device converts a normal TV into a smart one, making it able to stream videos, download apps, and play music. Given its sophisticated features, some users wonder how long it takes to update.
The Amazon Firestick takes between 5-15 minutes to update. During the update, you will see a message on your screen saying the process is underway and that you shouldn’t unplug the power socket.
The update speed is influenced by your internet — with a fast internet connection, the update could take less than 5 minutes. Experts advise that you avoid using cellular data on this device because it works best with Wi-Fi networks. However, the Wi-Fi you use should be fast and efficient to avoid downtimes during the update.
Knowing how to update the Amazon Firestick is vital for your operations. By updating this device, you help it perform optimally. Getting the latest software installed can also get the fixes that prevent apps from crashing or removing features that slow down the Firestick performance.
How To Update the Amazon Firestick
While most Amazon Firesticks automatically install new updates, there are cases when you have to install them manually. Given that Amazon releases new software almost every month, it is vital to regularly check for updates and install them manually if you have to. It is pretty simple to manual install a new Amazon Firestick update. This section discusses in detail the steps you need to follow when updating Amazon Firestick.
First, navigate to the settings menu on your TV. It is mostly the last option in the menu bar at the top of your screen. Note that the location of the menu bar varies depending on the version of your Amazon Firestick.
It also depends on the type of TV you use — some TVs have the settings icon on the first row of the menu bar. After clicking on the settings menu, select My Fire TV. Doing so will take you to a wide range of options; scroll to the right to get the right option for this purpose.
Remember that the My Fire TV option might be labeled differently depending on the model of your TV. If you have an older Firestick model, this option could be labeled as “System” or “Device.” Click on it to continue with the subsequent steps.
Then, choose about. This is the first option under the “My Fire TV” folder. It describes the various options you have regarding the Firestick updates. Under this option, you can choose either “Install Update” or “Check for Updates.”
If your Amazon Firestick is up to date, you will see “Check for Updates”. However, if the latest update is not installed, you will see “Install Update.” You will also notice a message on the right of the screen saying the software update will automatically begin when the Firestick is idle. Besides, a message pops up reminding you to reboot the system if you want to install the update.
At this moment, you should hit “OK” on your TV remote. This will automatically turn off your TV. As mentioned, Amazon Firestick updates only take place when the device is idle — and the best time for that is when the TV is in sleep mode.
You should wait for a few minutes for the updates to finish installing. During the update, you will see a message on the screen saying the device is updating. In some cases, the progress is displayed on the screen — this depends on the type of Amazon Firestick you are using.
You are warned against unplugging the power cable during the update because it can cancel the whole process. The time it takes to update the Firestick depends on your internet speed. If you are using a fast internet speed, it will take less than 5 minutes. Updating your Amazon Firestick is essential because it helps resolve common error messages. The device will also function optimally after a software update.
When Firestick Says Optimizing System Storage
With an Amazon Firestick, you can educate and entertain yourself with lots of media content. While this device is reliable, it sometimes displays error messages like “optimizing system storage”.
Mostly, when Amazon Firestick says optimizing system storage, there is a problem with the power adapter. If you are not using the OEM or original power adapter that came with your device, then that is the reason it displays the “optimizing system storage” message. You need to use the original adapter to keep the Firestick stable.
You should also ensure it is charged to prevent constant downtimes. There are several other reasons why the Amazon Firestick displays that message. This section discusses some of these reasons and how you can fix them.
Your USB cable could be the reason why Amazon Firestick displays the error message. Like the power adapter, if you are not using the original USB cable that came with the Firestick, you are likely to experience an error message.
Besides, if the USB is frayed, old, or otherwise damaged, it could result in significant damage. You should also look at the power source you hook your device up to because it can trigger optimization errors.
One common mistake Firestick users make is plugging the device’s power adapter into a power extension shared with several other devices. This is not ideal, and it can result in short-circuits — ensure the adapter has its unique source of power free from other devices.
Having known the various reasons why Amazon Firestick displays the “optimizing system storage” message, it is helpful to know some of the ways you can fix it. Here are some of the reliable options.
One way you can fix this error is by changing the HDMI port. According to Amazon’s support team, the error can be fixed by performing several actions on the HDMI port. Start by unplugging the Firestick from the HDMI port, then plug it back in. This should fix the problem instantly. If it doesn’t get the job done, try using another HDMI port on the TV. Sometimes, doing so fixes the problem because one of your TV’s HDMI ports could be damaged.
You can also fix the error by using the original power adapter and USB cable. You must use the original accessories and equipment that come with any electronic device. It might not work effectively if you use an unauthorized or third-party accessory. When unwrapping the Amazon Firestick for the first time, you will see a message on the plastic wrapper that says, “For optimal performance, use the included USB cable and power adapter.”
Therefore, you should adhere to this message and use the original power adapter. The original power adapter has unique specifications designed to work perfectly with the Firestick. Typically, the Amazon Firestick comes with one power adapter that outputs 1 amp of power.
Using another power adapter with lower or higher power output could cause the error. Even worse, using third-party power adapters could cause significant damage to your Firestick by delivering the wrong amount of power.
It is also vital that you use the original USB cable that comes with the Firestick. USB cables are designed to be universal, which is why using a third-party cable with your Firestick poses a lesser risk than using third-party adapters.
While the risk associated with third-party USB cables is smaller, it can still cause the “optimizing system storage” error. If you use a third-party USB cable or power adapter instead of the original, it is probably because it became defective.
If that is the case, you shouldn’t rush into using third-party power adapters or USB because they can worsen the condition. Instead, get in touch with the official Amazon support team for further assistance. Alternatively, you can buy new Firestick accessories online from Amazon.
Another way you can fix this error is by resetting Amazon Firestick. Remember that resetting this device will erase all of your applications and settings data. If nothing has worked to this point, resetting your Firestick could be the only option.
To do so, hold down the right button on the navigation ring and the back button together for around 10 seconds. This will prompt a reset notification on your screen. Click OK to start the resetting process. After resetting your Firestick, you can follow the given step-by-step guide to set it up again.
Using a wall power outlet is also another way of fixing the problem. This is ideal if changing to the original accessories didn’t get the job done. You should check where you plugged in your power adapter and ensure it is working efficiently.
The chances are you have plugged the power adapter into a power extension or strip that has a bunch of other devices plugged in. This shouldn’t be the case as those devices can consume the power your Firestick needs.
This will prompt the “optimizing system storage” error even if the Firestick is plugged into a power strip along only one device. The more devices are plugged in, the more chances of receiving the error message.
To prevent your power source from causing the error message, plug your Firestick’s adapter directly into the wall socket. By doing so, there will be no other devices drawing energy from the same power source. This will go a long way in fixing the problem.
How Much Data Does Firestick Use?
Amazon Firestick is a reliable device that runs on data. You are advised to use Wi-Fi networks rather than cellular data for the best results. But how much data does Firestick use?
When watching a movie with the video quality set to “Good”, Firestick consumes around 900MB of data per hour. It will consume around 3.5GB of data while watching videos in “best” quality. Videos in 4K will consume about 6GB of data per hour. This is quite a high amount of data, explaining the reason why you should consider using Wi-Fi networks.
From a basic point of view, the Amazon Firestick can consume your data allowance. This is why you should be careful with how you use it. Use apps that include a warning about how much data the device uses. If you are cautious about data usage, you can set limits to regulate it.
If you plug the Firestick into the HDMI, either on the side or at the back, it can easily be forgotten about. While it is not clear exactly how much data a Firestick uses when not in use, it can still consume a small amount of data.
If you turn off the Firestick entirely and there is no power getting to it via TV, then you can rest easy knowing no data is going to waste. However, you should avoid leaving your TV on standby because it can result in data consumption.
Wrap Up
The Amazon Firestick is a unique device that helps convert a standard TV into a smart TV. You can stream videos, download apps, and play music with this device. Like any other software, Amazon Firesticks need a regular update.
It takes around 5-15 minutes for a Firestick to update. This depends on the internet speed and the type of device you use. Also, there are several reasons why Amazon Firestick displays the “optimizing system storage” error. For example, it could be due to using the wrong power adapter and USB cable. It is vital that use the original power adapter and USB cable to avoid common errors on this device.
