Quick Answer: Yes, you can browse the internet on your Peloton screen using Firefox. This opens up access to web apps, streaming sites, and services that don't have dedicated Android apps. FitSwitch makes installation simple and adds a metrics overlay so you can track your workout while browsing.
Table of Contents
- Why Use a Browser on Peloton?
- Method 1: Manual Sideloading (Developer Mode)
- Method 2: Easy Installation with FitSwitch
- What You Can Access with a Browser
- FAQ
Why Use a Browser on Peloton?
A web browser transforms your Peloton from a single-purpose fitness device into a versatile screen. With Firefox on your Peloton, you can access:
- Web versions of apps — Sites that don't have compatible Android apps
- YouTube via web — Since the YouTube app requires Google services
- Streaming services — Watch content through browser versions
- Fitness websites — Training plans, cycling forums, technique videos
- News and reading — Catch up on articles during easy rides
Your Peloton has a 22" or 24" touchscreen with WiFi—a browser lets you use it like any other tablet.
Method 1: Manual Sideloading (Developer Mode)
You can install Firefox using Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This requires a computer and technical setup.
What You'll Need
- Windows or Mac computer
- USB-C data cable
- Android Debug Bridge (ADB) installed
- Firefox APK file
- About 30-45 minutes
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode
- On your Peloton, tap the three dots (⋮) in the bottom-right corner
- Select Device Settings → About Tablet
- Tap Build Number 7 times quickly
- You'll see "You are now a developer!"
Step 2: Enable USB Debugging
- Go back to Device Settings
- Open Developer Options
- Enable USB Debugging
Step 3: Install ADB on Your Computer
Windows:
1. Download Android SDK Platform Tools
2. Extract to a folder (e.g., C:\adb)
3. Open Command Prompt there
Mac:
1. Install via Homebrew: brew install android-platform-tools
2. Or download Platform Tools manually
Step 4: Connect and Install
- Connect Peloton to computer via USB-C
- Run
adb devices— authorize on Peloton screen - Download Firefox APK from APKMirror
- Run
adb install firefox.apk - Install a launcher to access Firefox
Alternative: OpenPelo Project
The OpenPelo project on GitHub provides tools for sideloading on Peloton, though it still requires technical knowledge.
Limitations of Manual Sideloading
- Computer required for app installs
- No metrics overlay — Can't see workout stats while browsing
- Vulnerable to updates — Peloton updates may remove apps
- Clunky navigation — Need a launcher app
- No integration — Browser and bike sensors are separate
Method 2: Easy Installation with FitSwitch
FitSwitch includes Firefox in its app store—one tap to install, plus workout metrics overlaid on your browsing.
What FitSwitch Offers
One-Tap Installation: Find Firefox in the FitSwitch app store and tap Install. First-time setup requires following the FitSwitch installation instructions.
Metrics Overlay: Track your workout while browsing: - Current power output - Cadence (RPM) - Heart rate - Resistance level
The overlay stays visible so you don't lose track of your effort.
Smartwatch Connectivity: Your browser-based workout counts: - Apple Watch — Full workout tracking - Garmin watches — Sync your data - ANT+ devices — Connect to your ecosystem
Constant Power Mode (Bike+): Set a target wattage and maintain it automatically while you browse or watch content.
Survives Updates: Firefox stays installed through Peloton software updates.
How to Set Up Firefox with FitSwitch
- Install FitSwitch — Follow the setup instructions
- Open App Store — Browse FitSwitch apps
- Install Firefox — One tap
- Enable Overlay — Turn on metrics display
- Browse — Access the web on your Peloton
What You Can Access with a Browser
YouTube via Web
The YouTube Android app requires Google Mobile Services, which Peloton doesn't have. But YouTube's website works in Firefox:
- Open Firefox
- Go to youtube.com
- Enable Desktop Mode — Tap the three dots, select "Desktop site"
- Sign in to your account
- Watch videos while riding
Desktop mode provides a better experience on the large Peloton screen.
Pro tip: SmartTube is a dedicated YouTube app available through FitSwitch that works without Google services and offers a better experience than the web version.
Other Streaming Services
Some streaming services without compatible apps can be accessed via browser: - YouTube — Full access via web - Twitch — Watch streams (though app is incompatible) - Various sports streams — Browser-based options
Fitness Resources
- Training plans — Access workout prescriptions from coaching sites
- Cycling forums — Read tips and discussions
- Technique videos — Watch instructional content
- Power analysis — Check your TrainingPeaks, Strava, or other platforms
News and Reading
Turn your cardio into productive time: - News websites - Long-form articles - Research and learning - Email (web-based)
Incompatible App Workarounds
Some apps that won't install natively might have web versions: - Check if the service has a web app - Enable desktop mode for best experience - Bookmark frequently used sites
Browser Tips for Peloton
Optimize for the Touchscreen
- Use desktop mode — Better layouts for the large screen
- Zoom in — Pinch to zoom on text-heavy sites
- Bookmark favorites — Quick access to frequent sites
- Enable dark mode — Easier on the eyes during workouts
Video Playback
- Enable full screen — Maximize the 22" or 24" display
- Check your bandwidth — Web streaming can be demanding
- Reduce quality if needed — Lower resolution for smoother playback
Performance Tips
- Clear cache occasionally — Keep the browser running smoothly
- Don't open too many tabs — Memory is limited
- Close when not in use — Return to Peloton app after workouts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Firefox and not Chrome?
Chrome requires Google Play Services to function properly. Firefox works independently, making it the best browser option for Peloton.
Can I watch YouTube on Peloton?
Yes, via Firefox (youtube.com) or SmartTube app. The official YouTube app won't work because Peloton lacks Google Mobile Services.
Does the touchscreen work for browsing?
Yes. Full touchscreen support for scrolling, tapping links, typing, and navigation.
Can I use an on-screen keyboard?
Yes. Android's on-screen keyboard appears when you tap text fields. It works fine for searches and short input, though typing long text is cumbersome.
Can I connect a Bluetooth keyboard?
Yes. Pair a Bluetooth keyboard through Peloton's settings for easier typing.
Do videos play in the browser?
Yes. HTML5 video plays in Firefox. Performance depends on the site and your internet connection.
Can I access my email?
Yes. Web-based email (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, etc.) works in Firefox. You won't get push notifications, but you can check messages.
Is browsing secure?
Yes. Firefox includes standard security features. Avoid entering sensitive information on public or unsecured sites.
Does this track as a workout?
Yes, with FitSwitch. The metrics overlay tracks your power, cadence, and heart rate, and broadcasts to your Apple Watch or Garmin.
Can I use browser extensions?
Firefox for Android supports some extensions. You can add uBlock Origin for ad blocking, which improves the browsing experience.
Will the browser stay open if I switch apps?
Generally yes, but Android may close background apps if memory is needed. Bookmark important pages.
Open Up Your Peloton's Screen
A browser transforms what you can do on your Peloton: - Watch YouTube without the app - Access web versions of services - Browse fitness content - Read during easy rides - Work around app compatibility issues
FitSwitch makes it simple: - One-tap Firefox installation - Metrics overlay while browsing - Smartwatch connectivity (Apple Watch, Garmin) - Constant power mode on Bike+
Get FitSwitch — Full internet access on your Peloton.
Last updated: January 2025