A Fire TV Stick shows a screensaver after a few minutes without input. If it keeps interrupting paused shows or music, you can change when it starts or turn it off. Newer models with Ambient Experience have a separate setting.
Quick Answer
Go to Settings, Display and Sounds, Screensaver, Start Time and choose Never. On models with Ambient Experience, open Settings, Display and Sounds, Ambient Experience and turn it off.
How to Turn Off the Fire TV Stick Screensaver
- Press the Home button and open Settings (the gear icon).
- Select Display and Sounds.
- Select Screensaver.
- Select Start Time.
- Choose Never. You can pick a longer delay instead if you only want fewer interruptions.
- On models with Ambient Experience, go back to Display and Sounds, select Ambient Experience and turn it off, or change its start time under its preferences.
Screensaver Options
| Setting | What it changes |
|---|---|
| Start Time | How long before the screensaver appears, or Never |
| Current Screensaver | Which photos or collection it shows |
| Slide Speed and Style | How images move |
| Ambient Experience | Full-screen widgets and art on supported models |
Troubleshooting
- If you do not see Screensaver, your model may use Ambient Experience instead. Look for that option under Display and Sounds.
- If the screensaver still appears, restart the stick so the change applies. See how to restart a Fire TV Stick.
- If playback does not resume after the screensaver, press Play or Select once, or update the app you were watching.
- An OLED TV can retain static images. If you have one, a later start time is safer than Never.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the screensaver start during paused videos?
It starts after a period with no remote input, and a paused video counts as idle.
Can I use my own photos?
Yes. Choose a photo collection under Current Screensaver if you store photos with your Amazon account.
Does turning it off use more power?
A little, since the TV shows a still image instead. Set your TV to turn off after inactivity if you often leave it on.
Want more tips?
See 10 things to know about the Fire TV Stick, and how to delete apps on a Fire TV Stick to free up space.
Summary
- Settings, Display and Sounds.
- Screensaver, Start Time.
- Choose Never or a longer delay.
- Turn off Ambient Experience on newer models.
- Restart if the change does not stick.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.