Amazon revives much-loved free Fire Stick remote months after it was blocked due to security concerns

AMAZON has finally brought back a popular Amazon Fire Stick feature after it was suddenly pulled earlier this year.

The free bonus tool allows users to control their device like the main controller.

Alamy

It was handy for those who had lost their physical Amazon Fire TV Stick remote and didn’t want to pay for a new one.

But the star feature was being able to type things like usernames and search terms a lot easier with virtual keyboard element.

Amazon withdrew the tool in April after security experts warned the online retailer that the perk could allow hackers to take control of someone else’s Fire TV.

The tool is different to the app – which was unaffected by the removal and any security concerns.

It works differently as a web-based alternative for those who don’t want to install more apps on their phone.

This allows you to scan a QR code and control your kit from a web browser immediately.

However, it still worked even if you aren’t on the same network which triggered fears fraudsters could install dangerous and malicious apps – a hacker would have to physically see the QR code on your TV screen to pull off the stunt.

Amazon has since been working on a fix and the final product is finally ready to use.

But there have been a few changes to the setup process to get around those security issues.

A prompt now appears on screen asking the viewer to verify the connection attempt after the QR code is scanned.

To do this you’ll need to use the traditional remote to manually click on the Yes button.

A unique four-digit could will also show up on screen, as well as on your mobile device, allowing you to confirm everything.

The fact you now have to use a physical remote to confirm entry may prove a problem for anyone hoping to use this feature if they’ve lost their proper remote control.

But you can still use the app-based remote control instead.

How to use the Amazon Fire TV web remote

You’ll need to use your physical remote to open the web-based remote.

Open the keyboard and scan the QR code that appears.

This should take you to a website called keyboard.amazonfiretvapp.com where you can set everything up.