How to enable ADB debugging on Android TV, Google TV and Fire TV
Apps like TVHomeX, TVRemoteX (for Fire TV) and CleanYourTV need the TV’s debugging connection. Here’s how to switch it on and what each option means.
Short answer
Google TV: Settings > System > About, press OK on Android TV OS build seven times, then Settings > System > Developer options > USB debugging (or Wireless debugging on Android 11+). Android TV: Settings > Device Preferences > About > Build, then Developer options. Fire TV: Settings > My Fire TV > About, select the device name seven times, then Developer Options > ADB Debugging. Approve the connection prompt on the TV.
Google TV, Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer
- Show developer optionsSettings > System > About > Android TV OS build. Press OK seven times until you see “You are now a developer”.
- Switch on debuggingSettings > System > Developer options > USB debugging. On Android 11 and later you can also use Wireless debugging.
- Connect and approveStart the connection from the app or computer. On the TV choose Allow; tick Always allow from this computer to skip it next time.
Android TV (Sony, Philips, Xiaomi, TCL Android TV, NVIDIA SHIELD)
- Show developer optionsSettings > Device Preferences > About > Build. Press OK seven times.
- Switch on USB debuggingSettings > Device Preferences > Developer options > USB debugging. Some models label it Network debugging or ADB debugging.
- Approve the promptChoose Allow when the TV asks.
Fire TV, Fire TV Stick and Fire TV smart TVs
- Show Developer OptionsSettings > My Fire TV > About. Select the device name (for example Fire TV Stick 4K) seven times.
- Switch on ADB DebuggingSettings > My Fire TV > Developer Options > ADB Debugging > On.
- Approve the connectionFire TV asks whether to allow USB debugging from the connecting device. Choose OK.
USB debugging vs Wireless debugging
| USB / network debugging | Wireless debugging (Android 11+) | |
|---|---|---|
| Port | 5555 on many TVs | Random pairing and connect ports |
| Pairing | Allow prompt on TV | Six-digit code plus pairing port |
| Survives restart | Usually | Port changes after restart |
Find the TV’s IP address
Settings > Network & Internet > your Wi-Fi network shows the IP address. More in how to find your TV’s IP address.
Is it safe to leave debugging on?
Only approved devices can connect, but anyone you approve has wide access. Approve only connections you started, use it on a trusted home network, and switch debugging off or revoke authorizations (Developer options > Revoke USB debugging authorizations) when you no longer need it.
Questions people ask
Why don’t I see Developer options?
You need to press Build (or the device name on Fire TV) seven times first. Some TVs from operators or hotels block developer options.
Does enabling ADB void the warranty?
It is a standard Android feature and doesn’t root or unlock the device.
Why does my connection fail after a restart?
Wireless debugging changes ports after a restart. Pair again or use USB/network debugging if your TV offers it.
Official sources
Written and checked by BiHai Song, developer of TVHomeX and TVRemoteX