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Prime Video asks for an activation code because typing your password on a TV remote is slow and insecure. The 6-digit code at amazon.com/mytv lets you sign in on a phone or computer instead. The code is a one-time handshake that links your TV to your Amazon account without ever exposing your password.

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What is an activation code?

An activation code is a temporary 6-digit code the Prime Video app shows on your TV. It is entered at amazon.com/mytv to prove you own the Amazon account. Codes expire after 10 minutes.

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Password sign-in vs activation code

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What the code actually does

When you open Prime Video on a TV:
  1. The TV asks Amazon for a temporary activation code.
  2. Amazon prints that code on the TV screen.
  3. You visit amazon.com/mytv, sign in on a secure device, and enter the code.
  4. Amazon matches the code to your account and tells the TV to sign in.
The TV never sees your password. That is a big security win.

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Why Amazon designed it this way

Smart TVs are shared devices and often insecure. amazon.com/mytv keeps your password out of the TV entirely.
Typing with a remote takes forever. A 6-digit code takes seconds at amazon.com/mytv.
Amazon accounts with 2SV need a phone code at sign-in. Doing this on the TV would be nearly impossible. amazon.com/mytv makes it easy.
Every amazon.com/mytv sign-in adds the TV to your device list. You can review and remove any device from Content and Devices.

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When does Prime Video ask for a new code?

Prime Video shows a new amazon.com/mytv code when:
  • You install the app for the first time.
  • You factory reset the TV or streaming device.
  • Your Amazon password was recently changed.
  • You deregistered the device from amazon.com/mytv.
  • Prime Video was updated with major auth changes.