Amazon launches new Fire TV Stick 4K with Vega OS

Amazon has launched a new generation of its Fire TV Stick 4K, featuring significant hardware and software updates. A major shift is the transition from Android-based Fire OS to the company’s proprietary Vega OS. This change aims to improve performance, with Amazon claiming the device is 20% to 40% faster than comparable competitors in terms of startup time and content playback. However, the move to Vega OS means the device no longer supports sideloading third-party applications, restricting users to the official Amazon Appstore.

The new hardware is slimmer and includes a Direct Power feature, allowing the stick to be powered directly via a television's USB port, eliminating the need for a separate wall adapter. Technical specifications include a 1.7 GHz quad-core processor, 8 GB of internal storage, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3. Video support includes 4K resolution at 60 fps with HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, though it lacks Dolby Vision support.

Accompanying the device is a completely redesigned Fire TV Remote. The new asymmetric design features a flat top and a curved, weighted bottom to make it easier to orient by touch. It includes a tactile home button with a metallic finish and a new customizable star button for quick access to favorite apps or settings like subtitles. The remote is also compatible with Fire TV models released from 2019 onwards.