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The BBC iPlayer is one of the most popular streaming channels anywhere. It carries mainly British TV shows but has a global audience counted by the millions. Some programming is available outside the UK, but not all of it. You can access BBC iPlayer on multiple devices, including Amazon Fire TV.
This tutorial will show you how to watch all programs on the BBC iPlayer on the Amazon Firestick.
Can I Watch BBC iPlayer on an Amazon Fire Stick?
If you’re a fan of Downtown Abbey, Luther, The Bodyguard, Doctor Foster, or one of the many other British TV programs going around, BBC iPlayer is where you go to watch them. Britbox is excellent and will be undergoing something of a transformation soon as more UK networks sign up, but for now, iPlayer is the place to go for UK TV shows.
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Some of these shows are available here in the US, and some are not. The BBC is hamstrung by licensing like other institutions, and it should be no surprise that not all programs are available in all regions. As always, there is a way around that. By the time you finish this tutorial, you will know exactly how to get around such annoyances.
First, we need to install BBC iPlayer on the Amazon Firestick.
If Outside the UK, Activate a VPN
Installing a VPN on your Firestick is easy. The ExpressVPN app is available on all FireTV devices and Firestick devices 2nd generation and higher. Their network also guarantees that you will be able to watch BBC iPlayer content outside of the default UK region. You can follow the instructions below for activating a VPN that will allow you to switch regions, or check out our more in-depth guide on installing a VPN on a Firestick.
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- Follow this link to sign up for a VPN. After sign-up, you will have the login to activate a VPN, which is necessary when accessing the BBC iPlayer outside of the UK.
- To install an app, go to the Fire TV Stick’s homepage on your TV or device and click Apps.
- Search for ExpressVPN. We like to use ExpressVPN because, time and time again, in our VPN testing, they have proved to be the most secure VPN network. Select Download.
- After installation is complete, select Sign in and input your email and password. Then, proceed through the steps.
- Select OK to set up your VPN. Then, select OK once more to confirm the connection request.
- Now, you can tap the power icon to connect your Fire TV device to your VPN. You can also choose the Current Location box to change your location. Changing the location to one inside the UK allows you to watch outside the UK.
Installing BBC iPlayer onto the Amazon Firestick
Being a legitimate streaming channel BBC iPlayer is available directly from Amazon. Adding it to the Firestick is then very straightforward. You may need to create a UK Amazon account to get full access to British shows, but you also may not. First, let’s install the app.
Turn on your Firestick and allow Apps from Unknown Sources if you haven’t already. That’s Settings > Device > Developer Options>Apps from Unknown Sources.
Keep in mind you may need to download the Downloader app before proceeding if you don’t already have it. Simply navigate to the search icon and type in Downloader. Tap the option to download it.
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Then:
- Open ExpressVPN and select a UK endpoint server.
- Restart your Firestick if you changed the Apps from Unknown Sources setting.
- Search for the BBC iPlayer app and install it.
- Launch BBC iPlayer and check what programming you can access.
Some users report having to change their Amazon account address to one in the UK, while others didn’t. That’s just a case of going to the Amazon UK website and signing up using a British address. This isn’t the most elegant solution as you have to find an address and remember to always log in to your native Amazon account and not this one. But, of course, this is a workaround, so there are bound to be some extra steps.
While it’s not illegal to set up a fake Amazon account, it is certainly against the company’s T&Cs. You also shouldn’t buy anything using this account as that would be illegal. If you don’t want to set up a fake UK account, try changing the region of your real one.
You can change the region on your existing Amazon account if you need to like this.
- Log into Amazon as you normally would.
- Select Your Account in the top right and select the Settings tab from the main page.
- Select Change under Country Settings.
- Select the United Kingdom and then Update.
Restart your Firestick, so that it picks up the new details, and try opening the BBC iPlayer while still using the UK VPN. If all goes well, you should see the full range of programming and be able to stream anything you like.
BBC iPlayer and VPNs
The Brits don’t seem as hot on blacklisting VPNs as American networks, but they do keep an eye on access through VPN servers. Most high-quality providers will watch for this action and offer alternative endpoint IP addresses if they find their current ranges with a blacklist by popular services.
Most VPNs have a UK endpoint server that allows you to watch BBC iPlayer without any problems. If you still don’t see the full range of shows, make sure your Amazon account change has stuck and filtered through to your Firestick and change the endpoint server on your VPN.
The BBC iPlayer offers programming to a global audience, so arguably, all the changes in an Amazon account region and VPN location could be unnecessary. You can watch the iPlayer in the US or any country without doing anything else at all. If the show you want to watch isn’t available, that’s where all this other stuff comes in.
Frequently Asked Questions
We get a lot of questions about using the BBC iPlayer on a Firestick. You’ll find the answers to the more commonly asked questions here.
Can you watch Live BBC on a Firestick?
You can watch regular live TV and BBC live on the Firestick. Download the free TV Player app from the Amazon app store to stream live channels through the stick. It isn’t as good as an aerial, but it does work well enough if you want to watch TV from your bedroom or kitchen.
Can I watch BBC on Amazon Prime?
Yes. Amazon Prime includes BBC America when you subscribe to its services, but you won’t have access to all of the shows that the UK version offers. You can access classic shows like Doctor Who, Orphan Black, and Luther.
Can I get Catch Up TV on Amazon Firestick?
Yes, you can get all of the BBC’s catch-up TV services. This includes the BBC player, All 4, My 5, and ITV. It’s better to have a VPN so that you can switch to a local UK address, but most of the features on UK television can be used in the US.
You can catch up on multiple television shows from all the terrestrial UK channels.
What do I do if the BBC iPlayer app isn’t working on my Firestick?
If you can’t open the BBC iPlayer app on your Firestick, you can uninstall it and reinstall it or clear the cache.
Try clearing the cache first by going to Settings>Applications>Manage Installed Applications. Then, click on BBC iPlayer and click Clear Cache.
Some users have found success when they update their Firestick’s time zone. To try that, go to Settings>Preferences>Time Zone>Europe.
How do I sign up for a BBC iPlayer account?
If you have yet to sign up for an account, head over to the BBC iPlayer startup page and create your account.
FAQs
Why is BBC iPlayer not working on my Amazon Fire Stick? ›
However, you have to update your BBC iPlayer app for the fix to be implemented. In order to update the app on your Firestick, you have two options: 1. Go to the Fire TV App Store (on your device) and search for BBC iPlayer.
How can I improve iPlayer? ›- Disconnect other devices. If other devices are sharing the same internet connection, try disconnecting them, or just turn them off to see if that makes a difference.
- Switch to Standard Definition (SD) ...
- Try a wired internet connection. ...
- Try a different browser. ...
- Check your internet speed.
Search. If you know the name of the programme you're after, you can search for it using the search bar. It's at the top right of any page within iPlayer on our website, or look for the magnifying glass icon on the left-hand menu of the TV app, or top right corner of our mobile/tablet app.
How do I update my FireStick to latest version? ›- Click the settings gear at the far right side of your screen.
- Scroll down and select the My Fire TV option.
- Then, click on About.
- Now scroll down and select the Check for Updates or Install Update button.
Buffering is caused by your internet connection cutting out and joining again, so to play a programme smoothly and without interruption, you'll need a good internet connection.
How do I clear the cache on my FireStick? ›Go to Settings on your Fire TV. Select Applications. In Manage Installed Applications, select the app you are having trouble with. Select Clear Cache, and then Clear Data.
Where is settings on BBC iPlayer? ›On mobiles and tablets, you can change your location by going to Menu then Settings (cog icon on the top right) and selecting Change Location.
What causes buffering on catch up TV? ›Why does my TV keep buffering? Possibly the most common form of buffering occurs when your internet speed is too slow to download the amount of data needed. In this scenario, your device will buffer the data for the video and then begin playing it when there is enough data downloaded to prevent lag in the stream.
What internet speed does BBC iPlayer need? ›A good broadband speed for streaming is at least 1.5 megabits per second (Mbps) for TV services such as BBC iPlayer for standard streaming, or 2.8Mbps for HD quality. For Netflix, the minimum speed required is about 3Mbps for standard streaming and 5Mbps for HD.
How does BBC iPlayer work? ›BBC iPlayer is where you can watch BBC programmes online.
You can watch all of our TV channels online and nearly all of our programmes are available to watch shortly after they've been broadcast for a set amount of time. We also curate shows from the BBC Archives and offer live events and online exclusives.
Can I watch iPlayer without internet? ›
Use BBC iPlayer without an internet connection
Rather than watch iPlayer on your web browser, download the free BBC iPlayer Downloads app to your desktop PC, laptop, mobile phone or tablet. This lets you download TV shows and watch them whenever you want within 30 days.
After all, BBC iPlayer has an expiry date of 30 days on all programmes downloaded to any device. But, there are a few methods to download them permanently. You can change the DRM of the video, burn it to a DVD/storage device, screen record while playing, and use third-party software to download forever.
Do Firesticks get outdated? ›Yes, FireStick devices do wear out and the best way to keep it afresh is to restart the device.
Do Firesticks need to be updated? ›Do you need to update the Fire TV Stick? You don't have to update your Fire TV Stick, but Amazon rolls out new software versions nearly every month, so it's a good idea to keep your device up to date to take advantage of the latest features and fixes.
Do older Firesticks run slower? ›Keep Your FireStick Up to Date
It is crucial to keep your device updated not only to optimize its performance but to keep away the security loopholes, malware threats, and other bugs that can slow down your device. Making sure your FireStick is running on the latest software version can improve its speed.
- Close other applications and programs. ...
- Pause the stream for a few moments. ...
- Reduce video quality. ...
- Speed up your internet connection. ...
- Remove other devices connected to your network. ...
- Update graphics card drivers. ...
- Try a wired Ethernet connection. ...
- Clean up your browser settings.
- Turn it off and turn it back on. ...
- Make sure no applications are running in the background. ...
- Disconnect other devices from the network. ...
- Delete your browser cache and temporary files. ...
- Reduce the video quality. ...
- Switch your router to 5 GHz. ...
- Download content instead of streaming.
Low bandwidth is caused by the Mbps rate that your current broadband has, or your bandwidth could be slowed down because too many people are connected to the network and, in some cases, to your device.
Does restarting Firestick clear cache? ›One of the easiest ways of clearing the cache stored on your device by the apps and services you regularly use is by restarting your device regularly. If you have used your Fire TV or Firestick device for a long time, you'll need to clear the huge amount of cache accumulated in your device to help speed it up.
What happens if you clear data on Firestick? ›Clearing the cache will remove temporary data storage while clearing data will restore apps to their default state. We recommend clearing the cache first since clearing data means you will have to log into the app again.
Is it OK to clear cached data? ›
Clear out all cached app data
These caches of data are essentially just junk files, and they can be safely deleted to free up storage space.
Go to iPlayers Parental Guidance page and click on the 'Set up the parental Guidance Lock now' button. Select the check box and click 'Continue'. Click the 'Turn On' button. You will now have to create a 4-digit pin code.
Is there an app for BBC iPlayer? ›Latest version. BBC iPlayer is the official application from the television channel BBC, thanks to which you can watch series, programs, and movies from the comfort of your Android device. That is, so long as you have an Internet connection and you're subscribed to the BBC channels.
What does the I in iPlayer stand for? ›BBC iPlayer was first called the Integrated Media Player (iMP), the Interactive Media Player, and then MyBBCPlayer.
Why does iplayer keep stopping and starting? ›This problem occurs if you have an unstable internet connection between your device and your router. But in several cases, buffering shows might also be due to slow internet speed or insufficient bandwidth.
How do I test my WiFi speed? ›Testing your WiFi speed with your phone
A good, broad-scope app is the Speedtest by Ookla app, available for both iPhone and Android. Like their web-based app, their mobile app can log your speed tests and track both download and upload speeds.
Why does my Firestick keep buffering? A slow connection is the most common reason for Firesticks buffering. You should only need about 5 Mbps of bandwidth to buffer SD video, 10 Mbps for HD video, and 25 Mbps for 4K video.
What is a good internet speed? ›A good download speed is at least 100 Mbps, and a good upload speed is at least 10 Mbps. With 100 Mbps, you can watch Netflix or YouTube, attend Zoom meetings, and play most online games on several devices at the same time. Some people can get away with fewer Mbps, and others need more.
How many Mbps do you need to run a smart TV? ›How Fast of Internet Speed Do Smart TVs Need? Smart TVs need an Internet speed of around 5 Megabits per second (Mbps). That will allow you to watch movies or programs on your smart TV with at least 720p resolution and with very few hiccups in the streaming.
How do I know what internet speed I need? ›If you want to stream 4K content to get the best picture for your 4K smart TV, you'll need a connection of at least 25 Mbps. Lower-resolution content is less demanding, but even streaming 1080p HD video will require a 10 Mbps plan for smooth performance. That's assuming you only stream video to one device at a time.
How can I watch BBC iPlayer for free? ›
...
How to Unblock BBC iPlayer from Anywhere in Under 2 Minutes
- Choose a VPN that's proven to overcome BBC iPlayer's geoblocks, like ExpressVPN. ...
- Use your VPN to connect to a server in the UK.
- Head over to BBC iPlayer and start streaming the best of British TV.
BBC iPlayer is a free service but remember your mobile operator may charge for the data you use on their network. If you're unsure how much mobile data costs or what your data allowance is, please contact your mobile network operator.
Do I have to pay for BBC iPlayer? ›You must be covered by a TV Licence (including a free TV Licence) to use BBC iPlayer. This applies to any device you use. You don't need a licence to watch S4C programmes on demand. Don't forget, you still need a TV Licence to watch live on any channel, TV service or streaming service.
How can I watch free TV channels without internet? ›A television antenna will usually allow you to watch local TV, like local news channels, ABC, NBC, and more. You can use an antenna to watch local channels without cable or a satellite TV subscription. With an antenna, you can watch live TV channels, local broadcast channels, and shows like Saturday Night Live.
How can I stream TV without internet? ›Use an Android to HDMI connector (Android)
All you'll need to do is to plug the USB cable into your phone and plug the HDMI end into the HDMI plug on your smart TV. That way, you can cast your phone to a TV without a WiFi connection. Also, you can use your mobile data to view other streaming apps.
It doesn't matter what device you use. If you watch or record live TV programmes on any channel, or download or watch BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer, you need to be covered by a TV Licence. This includes: TV sets (including smart TVs)
How do I permanently save iPlayer programmes? ›- Find the episode you want to download.
- Tap Download underneath the programme description.
- Tap on Menu > Downloads > Queue to see the progress of your downloads.
Downloaded programmes are available for the same amount of time as they are on the BBC iPlayer website or app. So if a programme is available for 30 days, you'll have until the end of that same 30-day period to watch the download.
Why can I not download some programmes on iPlayer? ›The programme has only just been made available to stream
If a programme has only become available in the past few minutes, there may be a delay in processing the download files. This is most likely if the programme was broadcast live or close to live (recently recorded) and the files could not be prepared in advance.
The simple answer is yes. As well as being able to watch live football on Amazon Fire Stick, there are various free apps available to help you stream live TV, along with dedicated catch-up services like BBC iPlayer and All 4. Want to know more about the Fire TV Stick?
Where is BBC iPlayer on my TV? ›
You can access BBC iPlayer in one of the following ways, depending on the device: Launch the app. Use your device's on-screen menu and episode guide. Press the red button on your remote from a BBC channel.
Is TV Player app free on Firestick? ›Download the TVPlayer app for free. Go to your Fire TV or Tablet and open the TVPlayer app.
Is the BBC iPlayer free? ›BBC iPlayer is a free streaming service that offers live and catch up TV from all of BBC's channels. This includes BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four, cBBC, BBC News, and Radio 1.
Can you watch BBC and ITV on Firestick? ›Yes you can with the TV Player app. Just download and within seconds you will be watching BBC, itv, channel 4 etc.
How do I get Freeview on Firestick for free UK? ›Launch the app and enter “https://firesticklab.com/freeview.apk” in the box. Click on “Go” to download Freeview TV. When the downloading finishes, click on “Install.”
What channels are free with the Firestick UK? ›Along with Prime, the other major streaming services available on the stick are Netflix, Disney+ (including Star on Disney Plus) Apple TV, Britbox, and Hayu. In terms of catch-up services, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My 5, and UKTV Play are all supported by the device, as well as internet giant YouTube.
Why can't I watch BBC iPlayer on my TV? ›If BBC iPlayer is failing or struggling to load on your connected TV, we recommend: ensuring your TV's firmware/system is up to date. trying a factory reset. working through all of the steps in our Troubleshooting problems on connected TVs and games consoles page.
How do I get BBC iPlayer on my non smart TV? ›- Amazon Fire TV. The Amazon Fire TV Stick plugs into the back of your TV and lets you download apps like Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Amazon Video. ...
- Google Chromecast. ...
- Apple TV. ...
- Now TV. ...
- Roku. ...
- Games consoles. ...
- PC and Mac.
- Open the BBC iPlayer app and select Sign in.
- Go to bbc.com/account/tv and either sign in to your existing BBC account, or register for a new one.
- When prompted, enter the code shown on your TV screen.
- Comparing the Best Live TV Apps for Firestick.
- #1) Kodi.
- #2) CatMouse APK.
- #3) Typhoon TV.
- #4) CyberFlix TV.
- #5) Pluto TV.
- #6) UnlockMyTV.
- #7) TeaTV.
What does a jailbroken FireStick do? ›
A jailbroken Fire Stick allows you to install third-party streaming apps and services on your FireStick to take your media viewing experience to the next level.
Is a FireStick worth it? ›While we generally think it's worth it to upgrade to the Max, the original Fire TV Stick 4K is still a good choice for those who want 4K streaming without paying for the latest bells and whistles, namely Wi-Fi 6 and blazing-fast speed. The voice features are impressive and Echo and Dot owners can control it with Alexa.
Can the BBC track your internet when you use iPlayer? ›We collect some information automatically
Things like your IP address, which browser and device you're using, or your device ID. And we can tell what webpage directed you to the BBC by looking at information from your browser.
BBC iPlayer is a free service but remember your mobile operator may charge for the data you use on their network. If you're unsure how much mobile data costs or what your data allowance is, please contact your mobile network operator.
Can TV Licence tell if you watch iPlayer? ›We contact customers who have declared that they do not need a licence but at the same time are shown from the information that we hold to be watching or downloading BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer on several occasions.