Amazon to Ditch Android for New Vega OS on Fire TV Devices in 2025
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Amazon is preparing a significant overhaul of its Fire TV operating system, transitioning to a new, proprietary Linux-based platform called Vega OS beginning in 2025. The move, revealed through a now-edited job listing, signals a strategic effort to reduce reliance on Google and exert greater control over its streaming hardware ecosystem.
Amazon’s Quiet OS Shift
The planned shift to Vega OS first came to light with a job posting seeking a software development manager to oversee “the Vega OS experience” and a dedicated Prime Video app on the new platform, slated for launch in 2025. However, Amazon swiftly removed all references to Vega OS from the listing after inquiries from a reporter, suggesting a deliberate attempt to control the narrative surrounding the change.
“Amazon removed references to Vega after a reporter contacted the company for comment,” indicating a sensitivity around the announcement.
Vega OS: Beyond Fire TV
While the focus is currently on Fire TV, Vega OS is not entirely new. The operating system already powers several of Amazon’s Echo devices, including the Echo Hub, Echo Show 5 third generation, and Echo Spot. According to Amazon’s source code notices, these devices run on Linux kernel 5.16. This existing infrastructure suggests Amazon has been developing Vega OS for some time, and the Fire TV transition represents a major expansion of its use.
Why the Change? Reducing Google’s Influence
The move away from Android is a significant one. Currently, Fire TV devices operate on a customized version of Android. Switching to Vega OS would eliminate Google’s influence over Amazon’s streaming hardware business. One key benefit, according to sources, is the removal of smartphone code deemed unnecessary for television devices, streamlining the operating system and potentially improving performance.
“The shift from Android would eliminate Google’s influence over Amazon’s streaming hardware business and remove smartphone code unnecessary for TV devices,” a senior official stated.
What Does This Mean for Existing Fire TV Users?
Existing Fire TV device owners should not expect to receive updates to Vega OS. The transition will apply to new devices launching in 2025 and beyond. This creates a clear division between older and newer generations of Fire TV hardware, potentially influencing future purchasing decisions.
The development underscores a growing trend among tech companies to develop their own operating systems, prioritizing control and customization over reliance on third-party platforms. Amazon’s embrace of Vega OS is a clear signal of its long-term commitment to building a self-contained ecosystem for its streaming and smart home devices.
