Amazon is preparing to launch Vega OS, a custom Linux-based operating system designed to replace Android on its smart TVs, tablets, and Echo devices.
Amazon has been working on an Android alternative to power its smart TVs for a while. A new report by the publication LowPass, dated April 17, suggests that Amazon’s Android replacement — Vega OS — will arrive by the end of 2025.
The first device to ship with Vega OS-powered Fire TV is likely to be a Fire TV Stick, expected later this year. Vega will be a Linux-based operating system, which is set to replace Android across devices such as smart TVs, tablets, and even Echo smart speakers like the Echo Show 5, Echo Hub smart display, and Echo Spot smart clock.
The first batch of Vega OS devices was initially expected to arrive by late 2024. However, the timeline has reportedly been pushed back, raising questions about the development cycle. Despite the delay, the new report strongly indicates that Amazon’s custom Vega OS is actively in development and will launch soon.
While a custom-built operating system will allow Amazon to tailor its devices for better performance and efficiency, it presents a challenge in attracting developers and getting them to build apps for a new platform.
Currently, Amazon uses the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), an open-source platform owned by Google. The transition to Vega OS will reduce Amazon’s dependence on Google.
However, this shift comes with a major drawback for developers: they will no longer be able to sideload Android apps that are not available on the Amazon Appstore. This will be a significant limitation, especially in the early stages of Vega OS when the app ecosystem may still be growing. That said, Amazon is likely to ensure that all popular apps are available from day one.
Vega OS is expected to launch with new devices while existing Fire TVs and Echo devices with screens will likely continue running the Android-based operating system. These older devices may eventually miss out on new features, as Amazon could restrict some updates to Vega OS-powered hardware.
