Amazon launched all-new Alexa tablets with native Google Play Store support on October 8, 2026, ending the Fire brand. The devices run an Android-based system with Alexa+ built in. This is the first Amazon tablet with full Play Store access.
Fire OS limited app access and blocked Google Play Store, forcing users to sideload apps. Amazon Appstore lacked key apps and timely updates. The Fire brand was associated with budget hardware and ads.
Users wanted Alexa+ AI features on a true Android tablet without ecosystem lock-in.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why is Amazon allowing Google Play Store now?
- A: Amazon is retiring the Fire brand and moving to Android-based Alexa tablets with Alexa+ built in to meet demand for true Android access without ecosystem lock-in.
- Q: What was wrong with Fire OS and Amazon Appstore?
- A: Fire OS blocked Google Play Store and forced sideloading, while Amazon Appstore lacked key apps and timely updates, and Fire hardware was budget-focused with ads.
- Q: When did Amazon launch tablets with Play Store support?
- A: Amazon launched the all-new Alexa tablets with native Google Play Store support on October 8, 2026.