Fire TV Stick users are advised to exercise caution, particularly when adding new applications to their devices. The widely used tool “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, paving the way for a deceptive copycat app aimed at extracting money from users.
The situation arose when Downloader vanished from Amazon’s online marketplace over the weekend. This tool, available for almost a decade, enabled Fire TV owners to search for and install applications not found in official stores, useful for accessing tools and apps that may be unavailable in certain regions or early software versions.
Despite its popularity, Downloader faced a temporary suspension, as acknowledged by its developer, Elias Saba. Saba, who operates the Fire TV site AFTVnews, explained that an update classified Downloader as a web browser, contravening Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices.
Amazon clarified its restriction on third-party browser apps for Fire tablets and Fire TV devices, prompting Saba to modify the app to comply with the guidelines. Saba’s v2.0.2 update removes the browser registration, awaiting Amazon’s approval for the app’s return to the Appstore.
During this lull, users are cautioned against a fraudulent version of Downloader attempting to deceive Fire TV owners into paying a weekly fee. Saba warns against installing this fake app and advises users to report it to Amazon.
If you already have the legitimate Downloader, refrain from deleting it as reinstallation will be impossible until Amazon reinstates it. Additionally, disable Auto Offload in Settings > Applications to prevent automatic removal of the app.
Should Amazon green-light the fix, Downloader could reappear on Fire TV devices later in the week, although users should monitor the situation closely.