Amazon is introducing a fresh tablet lineup that diverges significantly from its previous offerings. Marking the end of a 15-year tradition, the devices will no longer carry the “Fire” branding. Instead, they are being dubbed “Alexa Tablets” and are engineered with a dual purpose: to position Alexa Plus as a central pillar of users’ digital experiences and to deliver high-quality tablet performance.
The most notable feature of these new devices is their operating system. Unlike earlier models, these tablets run a complete version of Android that supports Google Play services. This allows access to the full spectrum of Android applications, moving away from the restricted app environments of the past. While the devices will come with preloaded Amazon applications and integrated shortcuts for streaming Prime Video and browsing Amazon’s product catalog, the underlying platform is designed to offer a more open and versatile computing experience.
Interesting move. But does Alexa being central make these just expensive Echo Show screens with touch? Hard to believe they’ll beat the iPad.
I’m skeptical about the battery life. Will full Android drain the battery faster than the lightweight Fire OS did?
Google Play support is a game changer finally! I can actually use my apps without workarounds.
Wait, no more Fire OS? I’ve been loyal to the Fire tablets for years. This feels like a huge betrayal.