Amazon is rolling out a major free upgrade for select Fire TV Stick models to improve the user experience. The update includes a modernized interface with updated typography, redesigned color gradients, and improved layouts on the homescreen. Users can expect a faster navigation experience, with performance enhancements of up to 30 percent.
In addition to visual changes and speed boosts, users will now be able to pin up to 20 apps on the home screen, up from the previous limit of six. The access to Games, Art & Photos, and the Ambient Experience has been simplified through the Menu button on the remote.
A new shortcut panel has been introduced by Amazon, accessible by long-pressing the Home button, providing quick access to Fire TV controls like audio and display settings. The update also includes Alexa+, an upgraded assistant set to launch in the UK later this year, enhancing content discovery.
Amazon is not only updating the Fire TV Stick but also revamping the Fire TV mobile app. The app will allow users to browse content, manage watchlists, and play titles directly on their TVs, serving as a second screen. This facilitates discovering new shows or adding recommendations to watchlists while away from home.
The update rollout will commence in the U.S., with plans to expand to other regions later this year. The new Fire TV update will initially be available for the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen), and Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series in the U.S., with more devices and countries to follow in the spring, including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming media players.
