Amazon is set to release a major free upgrade for select Fire TV Stick models to improve the user experience. The update includes a modernized interface with updated typography, color gradients, and improved home screen layouts. Users can expect faster navigation performance with up to a 30 percent improvement when moving through menus.
In addition to visual enhancements and speed boosts, users will now be able to pin up to 20 apps on the home screen, an increase from the previous limit of six. Amazon has streamlined access to Games, Art & Photos, and the Ambient Experience through the Menu button on the remote.
A new shortcut panel accessible by long-pressing the Home button offers quick access to essential Fire TV controls such as audio and display settings. The update also introduces Alexa+, Amazon’s improved assistant, which will arrive in the UK later this year to enhance content discovery.
Alongside the Fire TV Stick update, Amazon is redesigning the Fire TV mobile app. The updated app will allow users to browse content, manage watchlists, and play titles directly on their TVs, resembling the new Fire TV interface. This app will transform smartphones into a second screen, enabling users to discover new shows and add recommendations to watchlists remotely.
The update will first roll out in the U.S., with global regions receiving it 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. Amazon plans to extend the update to more devices and countries in the coming months, including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming media players.