For over a decade, Amazon Fire TV sticks have been based on the Android operating system. Recent reports suggest that the next generation of these popular streaming devices will also be based on Android, more specifically Android 14. This marks a return to a pure 64-bit operating system, which indicates increased hardware performance.
The most important facts in brief
- Continuation of the Android base: Despite speculation about a possible switch to Amazon’s own VegaOS operating system, the company is apparently sticking with Android.
- Use of Android 14: The new Fire TV Sticks are to be based on Android 14 and use a pure 64-bit operating system for the first time, which suggests more powerful hardware.
- Abandonment of FireOS: Instead of the previous FireOS interface, Amazon could rely directly on Android, which would mean a departure from its customized user interface.
Background: Decision in favor of Android 14 on Fire TV
Amazon’s FireTV series is extremely popular. This is no coincidence. After all, devices such as the Fire TV Stick (€ 44.99 * or the Fire TV Cube (€ 159.99 *) transform old TV sets into genuine smart TVs. The devices have always been based on Android. And this is unlikely to change in the future.
In an official announcement, Amazon has confirmed that the new Fire TV devices will be based on Android 14. The switch to a pure 64-bit operating system promises not only better performance, but also more efficient use of resources. This could be particularly beneficial for developers and users, as applications should run faster and more stable. The decision to continue to rely on Android comes as a surprise, as rumors had previously circulated about a possible switch to VegaOS.
VegaOS, an in-house development by Amazon based on the Linux kernel, was originally intended to promote independence from external developers such as Google and enable more seamless integration of hardware and software. However, this would also have meant that existing Android apps would have had to be redeveloped for the new system. This would entail considerable additional work for users and developers.
Differences between FireOS and VegaOS on Fire TV
FireOS is Amazon’s previous Android-based operating system, which offers a customized user interface and deep integration with Amazon’s services. It provides access to a wide range of Android apps, although some apps that have not been developed specifically for FireOS can be installed via sideloading. The main disadvantage is the dependence on Google and other third-party developers.
VegaOS, on the other hand, is based on the Linux kernel and was developed to give Amazon more control over software and hardware integration. By developing its own software, Amazon could act more independently and implement specific functions that are better suited to its devices. However, switching to VegaOS would mean that the wide range of available Android apps could not be used without further ado, which would be a decisive disadvantage for many users.
Conclusion
The decision to base the next generation of Fire TV Sticks on Android 14 shows Amazon’s desire to offer its users a familiar environment with a wide range of available apps. At the same time, the switch to a pure 64-bit operating system enables improved performance and more efficient use of hardware resources. Whether and when VegaOS will be used in future devices remains to be seen. As Engadget reports, the tech giant could present the new version of its FireTV stick on February 26.
