Amazon to Switch from Fire OS to AOSP Android for New Tablet

Key Takeaways

1. Amazon is developing a premium Fire tablet, codenamed “Kittyhawk,” that will use AOSP instead of Fire OS.
2. The new tablet is expected to be priced around $400, significantly higher than the current Fire Max 11.
3. The shift to AOSP aims to address the limitation of available apps on Fire OS compared to devices with the Play Store.
4. The new tablet will not include Google services or the Play Store; Amazon will use its own app distribution method.
5. Future plans for app distribution on the new device are unclear, potentially leading to sideloading or enhancements to Amazon’s app store.

Amazon is said to be changing its approach to tablet software. The project, known internally as “Kittyhawk,” involves the creation of a premium Fire tablet that will replace Fire OS with AOSP (Android Open Source Project), according to reports from Reuters and several sources close to the situation.

Changes in Software Strategy

Traditionally, Amazon’s Fire tablets have used Fire OS, which is a modified version of Android with a unique app store powered by the Amazon Appstore. However, a major limitation of this system has been the lack of available apps compared to devices that come with the Play Store. This might be a key reason why Amazon is looking into new options.

Pricing and Specifications

The upcoming device is expected to be priced around $400, which is a notable increase from the current top-of-the-line Fire Max 11 that retails for about $250. Details regarding the size of the display, internal components, and other specifications of the tablet remain undisclosed at this time.

Future of App Distribution

Even though this new tablet will run on Android, it won’t include Google services or the Play Store. Amazon is opting for its own method of app distribution and is not planning to partner with Google for now. Consequently, it is uncertain how users will obtain the necessary applications for their new device. This may lead to sideloading apps or enhancing Amazon’s app store as potential solutions. Nevertheless, the company has yet to announce any specific plans for its future software direction.

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