> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://amazonmytv.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Why Does Prime Video Ask for an Activation Code?

> Why does Prime Video ask for an activation code at amazon.com/mytv? Learn how the 6-digit code works, why it is secure, and when you need a new one.

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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.

## 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**.

## Password sign-in vs activation code

| Method                    | Password on TV        | amazon.com/mytv code             |
| ------------------------- | --------------------- | -------------------------------- |
| **Speed**                 | Slow (remote typing)  | Under 2 minutes                  |
| **Security**              | Password stored on TV | Password never leaves your phone |
| **Two-step verification** | Hard to use           | Works normally                   |
| **Multiple TVs**          | Retype each time      | One click per device             |

## 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.

## Why Amazon designed it this way

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Security">
    Smart TVs are shared devices and often insecure. amazon.com/mytv keeps your password out of the TV entirely.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Speed">
    Typing with a remote takes forever. A 6-digit code takes seconds at amazon.com/mytv.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Two-step verification">
    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.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Device management">
    Every amazon.com/mytv sign-in adds the TV to your device list. You can review and remove any device from **Content and Devices**.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## 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.

## Related guides

* [Amazon.com/mytv - How do I enter the code for Prime Video on my TV](/)
* [How to generate a new activation code](/blog/generate-new-activation-code)
* [Why does my TV keep showing a new code](/blog/tv-keeps-showing-new-code)