Amazon is set to roll out a significant update for select Fire TV Stick models to enhance user experience. The update includes a refreshed design featuring a modern interface, updated typography, redesigned color gradients, and improved layouts on the homescreen. Users can expect faster navigation, with performance improvements of up to 30% promised by Amazon.
Apart from visual and speed enhancements, users will now be able to pin up to 20 apps on the home screen, a significant 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.
A new shortcut panel accessible by long-pressing the Home button has been added, providing quick access to various Fire TV controls, including audio and display settings. Additionally, an upgraded assistant called Alexa+ is on the way to the UK, designed to enhance content discovery.
In addition to the Fire TV Stick update, Amazon is revamping the Fire TV mobile app to allow users to browse content, manage watchlists, and play titles directly on their TVs. The redesigned app will serve as a second screen, enabling users to explore new shows or add recommendations to watchlists remotely. The app will remain free to download.
The update will first roll out in the U.S., with other regions receiving it later this year. Initially, the new Fire TV update 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., with plans to expand to more devices and countries, including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming media players, in the coming months.