Amazon is embarking on a new journey with the introduction of its Vega OS platform. This signifies a strategic shift away from the Android-based Fire OS that has traditionally powered Fire TV hardware. The Fire TV Stick 4K Select, released this week, is the first device to showcase the capabilities of Vega OS.
This Linux-based operating system is engineered to be more streamlined and efficient compared to Fire OS. Amazon asserts that users can expect faster app launch times, even with comparable device specifications. The new stick maintains high visual fidelity, delivering 4K picture quality enhanced with HDR10+ support.
To ensure a smooth transition for users, Amazon has announced a Cloud App Program. This innovative program allows Android versions of applications that haven't yet been adapted for Vega to be streamed to Vega OS devices. Amazon will cover the cloud streaming costs for many app developers for the first nine months.
A key difference between Vega OS and Fire OS is the absence of sideloading capabilities. This means that users will only be able to install applications that are available through the Amazon Appstore. Promises have been made to bring support for Xbox Gaming, Luna, and Alexa+ in the future.
According to Amazon, they will continue to release new Fire TV products running on Fire OS during this transition period. They also assured users that existing devices will continue to receive support. Amazon is providing developers with resources, including Vega WebView and React Native support, to aid in the app porting process.
This transition underscores Amazon’s desire to foster closer integration between its hardware and software offerings, while simultaneously reducing its reliance on Google’s Android ecosystem. As stated by Amazon, "Developers are being offered tools to help port apps, including Vega WebView and React Native support."