Amazon won’t release Fire Sticks that support sideloading anymore
Ars Technica • • general
Key Points:
- Amazon’s newly released Fire TV Sticks, starting with the Fire TV Stick 4K Select, will operate on the proprietary Vega OS, which does not support sideloading of Android apps or software outside the Amazon Appstore for general consumers.
- Vega OS requires apps to be published in the Amazon Appstore and only allows sideloading for registered developers, effectively blocking typical consumer sideloading to enhance security and control.
- The move to Vega OS follows concerns about piracy enabled by sideloaded apps on Fire devices running the older Fire OS, which was an Android fork allowing more open app installations.
- Amazon’s shift aims to reduce unauthorized streaming and piracy, responding to pressure from anti-piracy groups and content providers, while also enabling new features like Alexa+ generative AI.
- While many users may not be affected, those who relied on sideloading for expanded device functionality might seek alternative streaming devices or workarounds due to the new restrictions.
