In the UK, Fire TV Stick owners are facing a crackdown on illegal streaming by Amazon. This initiative was announced by Amazon last year to combat the unauthorized use of its own-brand devices for streaming premium content without proper subscriptions. The rise in popularity of ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks, which enable access to premium content through pre-installed software, has prompted Amazon to take action.
Millions of users have turned to Fire TV Sticks for free streaming, leading Amazon to work with the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) to block apps facilitating piracy. Amazon emphasized the illegality of piracy and the risks it poses to users, including exposure to malware and fraud.
The ban started in parts of Europe in November and has now reached the UK, with some users receiving messages that their apps no longer function due to access to unlicensed content. The impact varies, with some users unaffected for now, but more disruptions are expected as the enforcement progresses.
Amazon is also restricting the installation of certain apps on Fire TV Sticks, displaying messages warning users about unlicensed content access. Users are directed to Amazon’s support pages for alternative content options via the Amazon Appstore.
This move signals a significant shift in the availability of free streaming on Fire TV Sticks and underscores Amazon’s commitment to protecting creators and customers from piracy.