Keeping your streaming device updated is one of the easiest ways to prevent crashes, slow menus and playback problems. In this guide, you will learn how to update apps on Firestick, Google TV and Android TV in 2026, plus what to do when an update gets stuck.
App Updates vs System Updates
| Update type | What it changes | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| App update | A single streaming or utility app | Fixes app bugs, login issues and compatibility |
| System update | Fire OS, Google TV or Android TV software | Improves security, stability and device features |
For reliable performance, keep both the apps and device software current. If your device is already slow, follow our cache-clearing guide for Smart TV, Firestick and Google TV first.
How to Update Apps on Google TV
- From the Google TV home screen, open Apps or the Google Play Store.
- Select your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Choose Manage apps & games.
- Open Updates.
- Select an individual app, or choose Update all.
- Keep the device connected to power and the internet until installation finishes.
Menu wording can vary slightly by television brand and Google TV version. Google’s official guidance also recommends checking for updates through the Play Store profile menu.
Turn On Automatic App Updates on Google TV
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Select your profile picture, then Settings.
- Open Auto-update apps.
- Select the automatic-update option that suits your connection.
How to Update Apps on Android TV
- Open the Google Play Store from the Apps screen.
- Select My Apps.
- Under Updates available, choose an app.
- Select Update, or use Update all when available.
How to Update Apps on Firestick
Amazon Appstore apps usually update automatically while the Fire TV device is online. To check manually:
- Open Appstore on your Firestick.
- Go to your app library or My Apps. The exact label can vary by Fire OS version.
- Select the app you want to check.
- If an Update button appears, select it.
- Wait for installation to complete before opening the app.
If no update button appears, the newest compatible version may already be installed. Restart the Firestick and check again. Only install apps from a trusted official store; avoid unknown download files and unverified “update” links.
How to Update Firestick System Software
- Open Settings.
- Select My Fire TV or Device & Software.
- Choose About.
- Select Check for System Update.
- If an update is available, install it and leave the device connected to power.
Amazon says Fire TV devices download software updates automatically when connected to the internet, but a manual check is useful when troubleshooting.
How to Update Google TV System Software
- Open Settings from the profile menu.
- Select System.
- Choose About.
- Select System update.
- Choose Check for update and follow the on-screen steps.
If you are setting up a new device, our Google TV setup guide for USA and Canada explains the essential first steps.
What to Do When an App Update Is Stuck
- Check your internet: pause other large downloads and test the connection. See our internet-speed guide for HD and 4K streaming.
- Restart the device: a complete restart clears temporary update errors.
- Free storage space: remove unused apps or downloads.
- Clear the app-store cache: clear cache for the Amazon Appstore or Google Play Store, then retry.
- Check the account and region: an app may not be available for every profile, country or device model.
- Reinstall only as a last app-level step: uninstall the official app, restart, then reinstall it from the official store. Save any login details you need first.
If playback still buffers after updates, work through these 10 proven buffering fixes.
Update Safety Tips
- Keep the device plugged in throughout a system update.
- Do not unplug or force-restart while installation is in progress.
- Use official app stores and manufacturer settings only.
- Avoid factory reset until you have tried restart, storage cleanup and official updates.
- Confirm that an app supports your exact device model and operating-system version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Firestick apps update automatically?
Most Amazon Appstore apps update automatically when the Firestick is online and has enough storage. You can still open the app listing to check whether an Update button is available.
Why is my Google TV app not updating?
Common causes include weak internet, low storage, an outdated system version, account or regional restrictions, and a temporary Play Store cache problem.
Should I clear cache before updating an app?
It is not normally required, but clearing cache can help when the store or app freezes, repeatedly fails, or shows an incorrect update status.
Will updating an app delete my settings?
A normal update should preserve settings and login data. Uninstalling and reinstalling may remove local data, so keep important account details before reinstalling.
How often should I check for updates?
Leave automatic updates enabled and manually check the device software about once a month or whenever you notice crashes, compatibility warnings or unusual performance.
Official Update Guidance
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