Amazon has announced plans to launch a new member of its Fire TV family.
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick is set for a significant shake-up as the retailer announces a major overhaul of its flagship streaming device. Amazon has just unveiled plans to launch a new generation of Amazon Fire TV Stick HD.
The revamped gadget will arrive packed with a wealth of new features when it hits shelves on April 29, with customers able to pre-order now for £39.99. Existing older Fire TV Sticks will remain fully operational following the launch, and other models such as the current Fire TV Stick 4K Max will continue to be available for purchase.
The new HD model is billed as the ‘fastest HD streaming stick’ ever, boasting a 30% faster start-up and app-loading speed compared to its predecessor. Users can browse the streamlined platform through dedicated content categories, pin their favourite streaming apps and receive tailored recommendations via Alexa+.
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The Fire TV Stick HD is also the slimmest model to date, featuring a 30% narrower frame making it considerably more portable and easier to insert into an HDMI port. The device offers quick and convenient access to a vast array of streaming platforms including Netflix, HBO Max, Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV+, alongside free-to-air content from BBC iPlayer and numerous others.
This grants users access to an enormous library of both new releases and classic films and television series, all from a single device, though subscriptions will be required for many platforms. Amazon has also confirmed an Adaptive Display setting will be introduced to the Fire TV Stick HD in the coming months, making text, menus and content simpler to view and navigate, reports the Daily Record.
Pre-order Amazon’s new Fire TV Stick HD
Amazon has unveiled a new generation of its Fire TV Stick HD to launch on April 29.
This function can be enabled to enlarge smaller elements, such as text and menus, while also scaling up larger components, like content artwork. Amazon’s Fire TV Sticks aren’t the sole streaming devices available, with competitors such as the Roku HD Streaming Stick delivering comparable features at a more affordable price point.
Currently at £29.99 at Argos, this model offers over 500 free HD TV channels broadcasting news, weather and sports, alongside the usual major streaming apps. Meanwhile, the Sky Glass range also delivers both television and streaming apps without requiring additional equipment, with monthly costs starting at £6 when bundled with a Sky TV subscription.
While reviews for the new Fire TV Stick HD are yet to drop in, the current generation has accumulated more than 23,000 reviews with an average 4.7-star rating. One five-star review says: “Great piece of kit. Everything you need at your fingertips and very easy to set up on your TV. Should have bought one a long time ago.”
Another says: “Does the job. I now get live TV and a large selection of services to a TV that can’t get a normal terrestrial signal. Price is reasonable. Very good HD quality and would buy again.”
Nevertheless, the same purchaser found the setup ‘fiddly’, adding: “Setup was fiddly. It took numerous attempts before the Wi-Fi could be recognised and then had to set up numerous channels individually, but worth it in the end.”
Elsewhere, another satisfied customer said: “Fantastic product. Easy to connect, clear picture and lots of apps to select. Made my old TV smart.”