Fire TV Stick to receive a major free upgrade this year

Amazon will roll out a free update for select Fire TV Stick models that refreshes the interface, speeds up menu navigation by up to 30%, and raises the home-screen app limit from six to 20. The rollout begins in the U.S. and will expand to more devices and regions later in the spring, and the Fire TV mobile app is also being redesigned.

Amazon is issuing a free software update for several Fire TV Stick models that changes the look and adds features. The release updates typography, colour gradients and homescreen layouts. Amazon says menu navigation will feel noticeably faster, with up to 30 percent improvement. The company is also updating the Fire TV mobile app alongside the device software. Key details: - The interface refresh includes updated typography, redesigned colour gradients and improved homescreen layouts. - Amazon reports menu navigation performance improvements of up to 30 percent. - The home-screen app pin limit increases from six to 20, and the Menu button now gives streamlined access to Games, Art & Photos, and the Ambient Experience. - A new shortcut panel is available via a long press of the Home button, offering quick access to audio and display controls. - Alexa+, Amazon’s upgraded assistant, is expected to arrive in the UK later this year to support faster content discovery. - The initial U.S. rollout covers Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen), and the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series, with Amazon planning wider expansion to more devices and countries in the spring; the redesigned Fire TV mobile app will remain free. Summary: The update refreshes the Fire TV experience with visual changes, faster navigation, added shortcuts and a larger app grid on the homescreen. Amazon says the rollout will start in the U.S. and expand to additional devices and regions in the spring, while Alexa+ and the redesigned mobile app are slated to arrive later in the year.