Amazon has announced a new Fire TV Stick 4K with a thinner design, faster performance and a completely redesigned remote. The streaming device also ships with the company's Vega operating system instead of Android, along with Alexa+ and the refreshed Fire TV experience built in.
Redesigned remote with new home button
The new remote features a curved, weighted design intended to feel more comfortable in the hand. Buttons have been given different shapes and indentations so they can be identified by touch. The home button now has a bright orange finish and a distinctive metal surface, making it easier to spot.
Amazon says the home button is pressed about 100 million times every day across its Fire TV devices. A customisable star button lets users jump straight to a favourite app or setting with a single press, a feature previously reserved for Amazon's more expensive Pro remote. Dedicated shortcut buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Disney+ and Prime Video remain.
Faster performance and slimmer build
The new Fire TV Stick 4K supports 4K ultra HD streaming and is up to 40% faster than rival devices, which should mean quicker app launches, smoother menus and less waiting when navigating the interface. The Stick itself has been slimmed down so it takes up less room behind the television, and it can draw power directly from a compatible TV's USB port, removing the need for a separate mains connection.
Under the hood, there is 8GB of storage, a quad-core 1.7GHz processor and support for Wi-Fi 6, which should help deliver faster connections and reduce buffering.
Price and availability
The new Fire TV Stick 4K costs £69.99 and starts shipping today. Amazon has launched it with an introductory discount, with UK customers able to buy it for £32.99 for a limited time.
