Amazon is rolling out a significant free upgrade for select Fire TV Stick models to enhance user experience. The update includes a modernized interface with updated typography, redesigned color gradients, and improved layouts on the homescreen. Users can expect a 30 percent performance boost in navigation speed while moving through menus.
Besides the visual and speed improvements, users can now pin up to 20 apps on the home screen, a notable increase from the previous limit of six. Access to Games, Art & Photos, and the Ambient Experience has been streamlined through the Menu button on the remote control.
A new shortcut panel accessible by long-pressing the Home button has been added, offering quick access to Fire TV controls such as audio and display settings. Additionally, Amazon is introducing Alexa+, an upgraded assistant that will enhance content discovery speed and intuitiveness.
In addition to the Fire TV Stick update, Amazon is redesigning the Fire TV mobile app to allow users to browse content, manage watchlists, and play titles directly on their TVs. The app’s new design aligns with the updated Fire TV interface, turning smartphones into a second screen for easier content discovery and watchlist management on the go.
The update will first roll out in the U.S., with other regions to follow later this year. Initially, the new Fire TV upgrade will 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. Amazon plans to extend availability to more devices and countries later in the spring, including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming media players.