How to install ES File Explorer on Amazon Fire TV?

One of the first things I do while setting up my AFTV device is to install ES File Explorer on Amazon Fire TV or Stick. Why do I need to install ES File Manager on Fire TV you may ask. Well, it is in my list of best Apps for Amazon Fire TV for a reason. It used to be that sideloading Kodi on Fire TV required ADB work. Sideloading any app for that matter required configuring adbFire, which was a hit or miss especially for Fire Stick owners. The new method to install unofficial apps such Kodi and FireStarter uses ES File Explorer on the AFTV device and active internet connection. Nothing else. This simplifies the installation of unofficial apps significantly. So I strongly suggest that you setup ES File Explorer on AFTV. [Read: Beginner Blueprint: Complete Amazon Fire TV Kodi Guide]

Install ES File Explorer on Amazon Fire TV

Before you install ES File Manager on Fire TV or Stick, follow my prep guide to enable ADB debugging and apps from unknown sources on your device. For downloading and installing ES File Explorer, "Apps from Unknown Sources" must be enabled. Once that is done, proceed to install ES File Explorer on Fire TV. There are multiple ways to do this. You may follow whichever method is convenient to you. [Read: 20 Best Kodi Addons for 2016: Updated, working list]

Method 1: Install ES File Manager on Fire TV using Browser

The first ES File Explorer installation method uses the Web browser. You can login to your Amazon account, search for and open ES File Explorer on Amazon App Store, and deliver it to your Fire TV device as shown in the picture below.

Within minutes, ES File explorer should be delivered to your Fire TV device.

Method 2: Install ES File Manager on AFTV using Search

The second method uses the built in search feature to install Fire TV or Fire TV Stick File Manager. There are two ways to search for ES File Explorer.

Text Search

Text search is the default type. Just type "ES File Explorer" and select to do a text search as shown below.

Having a Fire TV compatible wireless keyboard and mouse makes it easy to run text searches

Best Wireless HTPC and Android TV Box Keyboards:

1. Logitech K410 Living-Room Wireless Keyboard with Built-In Touchpad - $37.75
2. Logitech Illuminated K830 HTPC Wireless Keyboard and Touchpad - $69.99
3. iPazzPort KP-810-10AS Wireless Mini Keyboard Remote with Touch - $15.99
4. Rii i8+ 2.4GHz Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad - $22
5. LYNEC C120Pro Mini Wireless Gyro Remote Keyboard Mouse - $13

Voice Search

Alternatively, from search screen, press and hold the voice button and do a voice search.

When Fire TV is listening, say "ES File Explorer" and select to view the results.

Whether you use text search or voice search, you should see ES File Explorer in the search results as shown below.

Open ES File Explorer result and hit "Download" to install ES File Explorer on Amazon Fire TV or Stick.

Once the installation completes, ES File Manager should appear in the Apps menu on your Fire TV's homescreen, as shown in the picture below.

There you have it. Go ahead, setup ES File Explorer on AFTV device. You can then install SPMC on AFTV, add Kodi to your Amazon Fire device, or hook your Amazon box with FireStarter, as well as getting any other unofficial apps on your device.