Amazon Launches Vega OS Fire TV Stick HD, Extends Software Support
Amazon confirmed that the newly launched Fire TV Stick HD runs on Vega OS, not the Android-based Fire OS used on previous models.
The company has launched a new Fire TV Stick HD model that uses its Vega OS operating system, while also announcing extended software support for a wide range of existing Fire TV devices. The company confirmed the new device's operating system following initial consumer confusion, and reports indicate a broader transition for future models.
New Device and Operating System
Amazon confirmed that the newly launched Fire TV Stick HD runs on Vega OS, not the Android-based Fire OS used on previous models. Vega OS is a Linux-based operating system that made its formal debut on the Fire TV Stick Select in 2023.
Some customers viewing the product page for the new Fire TV Stick HD have seen a warning stating, "For enhanced security, this device prevents sideloading or installing apps from unknown sources. Only apps from the Amazon Appstore are available for download." This warning does not appear for all users viewing the page, leading to initial confusion.
Sideloading—the process of installing applications from outside the official Amazon Appstore—was not officially supported on previous Fire TV devices but was commonly performed by users.
A report from Lowpass, citing sources within Amazon, states that all future Fire TV Stick devices will transition from Android to Vega OS. Reports about Amazon's potential transition away from Android for Fire TV devices have circulated for nearly three years. Amazon continues to show active support for Android builds for its existing product lineup.
Extended Software Support
Separately, Amazon has announced extended software support for most of its current Fire TV streaming sticks and cubes. The company is promising compatibility and security updates for these devices until December 31, 2030.
The devices included in this extended support announcement are:
- Fire TV Stick 4K Select
- Fire TV Stick 4K Plus
- Fire TV Stick 4K Max (second generation)
- Fire TV Stick 4K (second generation)
- Fire TV Stick HD (second generation)
- Fire TV Stick HD (first generation)
- Fire TV Stick Lite
- Fire TV Stick (third generation)
- Fire TV Stick 4K Max (first generation)
- Fire TV Cube (third generation)
The original Fire TV Stick 4K will receive support until December 31, 2029.
Reported User Impact
The Lowpass report suggests the operating system transition will not have a major effect on most Fire TV users, as many average users may not notice a difference. The main functional change reported with the Vega OS-based Fire TV Stick HD is the loss of sideloading capability. Some users previously utilized sideloading for various purposes, including accessing pirated content.
In related news, Amazon recently notified customers that it will end support for several older Kindle models on May 20, 2026.