Amazon has been quietly engaged on ditching the Android-based software program its Hearth TV streaming units run on in favor of its personal OS, and a brand new report claims the alternative will launch later this yr.
As first reported in 2023, Amazon is cooking up a Linux-based OS, codenamed Vega, to ultimately substitute Hearth OS, a fork of open supply Android that sits contained in the likes of the Hearth TV Stick 4K Max, Hearth Pill collection and Echo Present audio system.
Now, LowPass, which has an excellent observe document with insider Amazon data, reviews that Amazon will launch its “first TV streaming gadget powered by its still-unannounced Vega OS later this yr.” The launch is a bit delayed, as the corporate initially aimed for a late 2024 rollout, in keeping with sources acquainted with Amazon’s plans. Since Vega OS requires all new apps to be written in a web-forward format for the platform, Amazon has been “courting main publishers” to deliver their apps on board.
Although Amazon nonetheless hasn’t formally introduced Vega OS, we have already seen it roll out to a few present merchandise: the Echo Present 5, Echo Hub, and Echo Spot. However good audio system are comparatively easy units in comparison with a TV or streaming stick, and whether or not Amazon would push ahead with the transition in any respect got here into query in February after Amazon revealed it is bringing an up to date model of Hearth OS to this yr’s good TVs.
That led to some speculating Amazon may very well be abandoning Vega fully, but it surely seems it is charging full steam forward. This newest report cites job listings referencing the still-in-development software program in addition to apps which have been constructed by main publishers for this new platform.
What does this imply for sideloading apps?
Nonetheless Amazon finally ends up dealing with the rollout of Vega OS, it marks a severe blow for sideloading apps on Hearth TV units. Sideloading is a helpful choice to obtain and run apps not obtainable by way of the Hearth TV app retailer.
For instance, earlier than Peacock was obtainable on Hearth TVs, sideloading was the one solution to entry the app. Sideloading can also be common amongst customers who’d choose to customise their streaming expertise with third-party apps like Kodi or IPTV emulators.
Even when sideloading nonetheless works with Vega OS, by design it will be restricted to apps particularly made for Vega OS. That cuts down on its utility considerably, as even when some main app makers do soar on board, the choice will pale compared to the sturdy Android ecosystem.
As Amazon will get able to roll out its first Hearth TV powered by the brand new Vega OS later this yr, it is clear the corporate walks a nice line between sustaining its market dominance and risking the loyalty of its most devoted customers.
