Aug 21, 2025 12:49:00

Reports that Amazon plans to release a tablet with genuine Android instead of Fire OS as early as 2026

Reuters reported that Amazon is developing a high-end tablet running Android OS as part of a project called 'Kittyhawk.' The new tablet will run native Android, rather than the Android-based 'Fire OS' that has been used on devices like the Kindle.

Exclusive: Amazon looks to ditch homegrown software for Android in Fire tablet revamp, sources say | Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/amazon-looks-ditch-homegrown-software-android-fire-tablet-revamp-sources-say-2025-08-20/

Amazon Fire Tablet to fully embrace Android with new release
https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/amazon-fire-tablet-android-report/

According to six people familiar with the matter, Amazon is working internally on a project called Kittyhawk, which is developing a high-end tablet priced at around $400, with a target release date as early as 2026.

Amazon has been developing its Android-based Fire OS for many years, using it on its own tablets, such as the Fire HD . However, Reuters points out that its emphasis on simplicity has led to sluggish sales among consumers who want more powerful devices.

The biggest concern is that Fire OS devices don't officially support the Google Play app store. Kindle and Fire HD users primarily get their apps from the Amazon App Store, but the selection is significantly smaller than Google Play, and they can't install popular Google apps like YouTube.

In March 2025, Microsoft's 'Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA),' which supported the ability to install apps from the Amazon App Store on Windows 11, will be

discontinued , and the Amazon App Store for Android will be closed on August 20, 2025. The Amazon App Store is currently reducing its functionality.

However, due to its simplicity, it is inexpensive and is linked to related services such as Amazon Prime Video and e-books, and the sales of the hardware itself are strong. Amazon is ranked fourth in the global tablet market share after Apple, Samsung, and Lenovo.

The new tablet's $400 price tag is relatively high, about 1.7 times the price of the current top-of-the-line model, the Fire Max 11 , but it is still very cheap compared to other companies' tablets such as the iPad.

Amazon declined to comment when contacted by Reuters, saying it 'does not respond to rumors or speculation.'