Amazon Develops Linux-Based OS to Break Away from Android Dependency
Amazon Develops Linux-Based OS to Break Away from Android Dependency
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Amazon Develops Linux-Based OS to Break Away from Android Dependency
Journalist Janko Roettgers from Lowpass reports that Amazon has been developing a new operating system, internally referred to as “Vega,” aiming to replace the Android system on Fire TV, smart displays, and other connected devices.
Several of Amazon’s smart home devices have historically utilized a forked version of Android known as Fire OS. However, due to the reliance on the Android Open Source Project to build Fire OS, the development of the company’s operating system has lagged behind Google for several years.
Vega isn’t a new fork of Android, nor is it based on AOSP. It is styled around Linux and embraces a more network-oriented application model. Application developers have been instructed to use React Native as the application framework, enabling them to construct native applications using JavaScript-driven interfaces.
Currently, Amazon’s device OS division has “several hundred” individuals dedicated to the development of this new operating system, including former Mozilla engineer and JavaScript expert, Zibi Braniecki. Braniecki joined Amazon in early 2022 working on Alexa, transitioning to the device OS team in early 2023. On LinkedIn, he hinted at working on “the next generation operating system for smart home, automotive, and other Amazon device product lines.”
Roettgers notes the rapid progress of Vega’s development. The system has already been tested on Fire TV streaming adapters, and Amazon has disclosed its plans to transition to the new application framework to certain partners in the near future.
An insider familiar with the company’s plans suggests that Amazon might start integrating Vega into some Fire TV devices as early as next year. An SDK is also being prepared for release, allowing developers to port their applications to Vega before its market launch.
Furthermore, reports indicate that Amazon’s ultimate goal is to detach from its reliance on Android for all new devices. Vega is intended not only for Fire TV and smart displays but also for in-car entertainment systems and other upcoming hardware products. Multiple job postings by Amazon indicate that Vega will be pivotal in its automotive business.
The emergence of Vega also helps Amazon avoid further conflicts with Google. Roettgers mentions the longstanding disputes between the two companies over Amazon’s use of the Android system. Google had previously pressured hardware manufacturers not to produce smart TVs running Amazon’s system. However, after an agreement, Amazon collaborated with TV manufacturers like Hisense and TCL. Yet, by moving away from the Android system, Amazon should gain better control over its destiny.
Nevertheless, some industry experts believe that competitive pressure might not be the primary reason for Amazon’s shift to Vega. Amazon’s real concern could be how to attract billions of eyes on various low-cost devices and then monetize them through advertising and services — and a custom-built operating system might be the optimal way to achieve this goal.
