Amazon smart TVs could soon replace Fire OS with Linux-based Vega OS

The big picture: Amazon uses a fork of Android called Fire OS to power its tablets and smart TVs, but it has also been developing a new operating system called Vega, with plans to ditch Android for good. A new report suggests the first Vega OS device could debut later this year.

Electronics newsletter Lowpass reports that Amazon is preparing a new TV streaming device powered by Vega OS. With development nearly complete, the company is now negotiating with major app makers to bring their services to the platform. Amazon expects to release the device later this year.

Vega is a Linux-based operating system meant to replace Fire OS across Amazon's smart home lineup. It already powers several devices, including the Echo Show 5, Echo Hub smart displays, and the Echo Spot smart clock.

Vega OS uses JavaScript-based React Native instead of Java-based Kotlin, so developers must rebuild their software. To ease the transition, Amazon hosted a Fire TV App Partner Summit earlier this year to showcase Vega OS. Several major publishers, including Paramount, Rakuten, and the BBC's UKTV, were reportedly on board.

Amazon may be pushing forward with Vega OS, but it hasn't abandoned Android yet. The company recently announced plans to release new Fire TVs powered by Android 14, sparking speculation that it could be scaling back or even ditching its Vega OS project.

Despite Amazon's announcement, the Lowpass report insists that Vega is still in active development and will soon power more of the company's smart home devices. While it's unclear whether Vega will make its way to Fire tablets due to app compatibility issues, Amazon plans to include it in future Fire TVs and Echo smart speakers.

Ditching the Android-based Fire OS in favor of the Linux-based Vega on smart TVs may not impact most users, especially if Amazon can convince major developers to support the platform. However, it could create challenges for power users who install third-party apps or sideload Android applications since many developers may choose not to bring their services to Vega OS.