Amazon is preparing to launch a new tablet that could run on Android instead of its custom FireOS software, according to a report from Reuters. Multiple sources tell the outlet that Amazon plans to release the “higher-end” Android tablet as early as next year.
Amazon currently powers its Fire tablets using a forked version of Android, forcing developers to create apps compatible with FireOS and distribute them on the Amazon App Store. The company’s upcoming tablet could soon change this, potentially giving users access to a wider variety of Android features and apps.
The updated Fire tablet could cost $400, according to Reuters, marking a big jump from the Amazon’s $230 Fire Max 11 device. Amazon still plans to launch cheaper tablets with the Linux-based Vega operating system used in some of its Fire TV streaming devices, but the company’s full lineup of tablets will eventually adopt Android, Reuters reports.
