Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Amazon launched its new Fire TV Stick HD featuring 30% faster performance, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and a slimmer design that powers directly from TV USB ports.
- PCWorld reports the device runs on Linux-based Vega OS instead of Android-based Fire OS, providing better security but limiting USB storage compatibility.
- Currently available for $21.99 during a limited-time offer, the streaming device supports 1080p content with HDR10 and HDR10+ capabilities.
Update on May 28, 2026: Amazon’s newest generation of Fire TV Stick HD is now available with a price tag that’s even cheaper than expected. It’s currently on sale for just $21.99, but this is a limited-time offer. It’s expected to return to its regular price of $34.99 when it ends.
Original story from April 16, 2026: Amazon is set to release a new version of the Fire TV Stick HD soon. This will be the second in the Fire TV Stick line to run on a different operating system, departing from the usual Android-based Fire OS that has powered all Fire TV devices and Fire tablets.
The new Fire TV Stick HD will run on the Linux-based Vega OS, which was previously introduced with the Fire TV Stick 4K Select in October 2025. Vega OS brings a number of advantages, including faster performance and better security, but it doesn’t support sideloading and it can only run apps from Amazon’s official app store. The new Fire TV Stick HD connects directly to the TV and won’t come with a power adapter.
Amazon says of the new model in its press release:
The new Fire TV Stick HD is Amazon’s slimmest streaming device—both smaller in volume and width than previous models. It’s optimized for Direct Power through a TV’s USB port, so it fits more neatly behind a TV without requiring a separate power adapter.
Fire TV Stick HD also delivers noticeable speed improvements compared to previous HD models—more than 30% faster on average than the last-generation HD stick, which means it turns on and opens apps more quickly. It comes with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 support to help ensure a stronger, more reliable connection for customers.
Amazon says that while the new Fire TV Stick HD uses the same processor as its predecessor, it will be 30 percent faster on average. It’s slightly smaller than the previous model, weighing 35.8 grams. Content is maxed out at 1080p and it supports both HDR10 and HDR10+.
There’s one drawback, however. Vega OS makes it more difficult to use USB storage devices via the Fire TV Stick. You’ll also need an additional Micro-USB-to-USB-A adapter, as the relevant port is missing.
The new Fire TV Stick HD is set to launch “by the end of the month” (April 29th going by the product listing page) and it’s already available for preorder. It will retail for $34.99. The package includes a USB cable for connecting to the TV, but doesn’t have the HDMI cable that was included with previous models (now available separately).
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.