Amazon is rolling out a significant 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% when moving through menus.
Apart from visual and speed improvements, users can now pin up to 20 apps on the home screen, an 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 has been added, accessible by long-pressing the Home button, offering quick access to Fire TV controls like audio and display settings. Additionally, an upgraded assistant called Alexa+ is set to launch in the UK later this year, aiming to enhance content discovery.
In conjunction with the Fire TV Stick update, Amazon is also revamping the Fire TV mobile app. The redesigned app will allow users to browse content, manage watchlists, and play titles directly on their TVs, aligning with the updated Fire TV interface.
The update will start rolling out in the U.S. soon, with a global release planned later this year. Initially, the new Fire TV features will be available on 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 expansion to more devices and countries, including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming media players, scheduled for the spring.
