Amazon's forthcoming Fire tablet is rumored to run on Android software, according to reports.
Amazon's latest venture in the tablet market is creating a stir. The tech giant is reportedly working on a new Fire tablet, internally known as "Kittyhawk," which is expected to hit the shelves next year.
Currently, Amazon's most expensive Fire tablet, the Fire Max 11, retails at $230. However, the new tablet could potentially see a major price hike, with reports suggesting a $400 price point. This could mark a significant departure from Amazon's strategy of selling cheaper tablets, which has reportedly held back sales among consumers seeking higher-performing devices.
The new Fire tablet is intended to address concerns about limited features and app availability that have been raised by consumers and app developers. Unlike Amazon's current Fire tablets, which use a custom version of the Android operating system for simple functionality, the new tablet is expected to use an open source version of Android. This shift could potentially appease those frustrated by Amazon's in-house operating system.
Amazon is not new to the Android landscape. Developers are required to make versions of their apps that fit Amazon's specific software requirements for Fire tablets. The company's upcoming Fire tablet is also expected to compete with higher-end tablets like the iPad.
The cheapest iPad currently costs $350, which is $120 more than the priciest Fire tablet. However, the new Fire tablet, if priced at $400, could still offer a more affordable alternative to the iPad.
Further details about the new Fire tablet are currently unknown. What is clear, though, is that Amazon is aiming to level up its game in the tablet market, and the new Fire tablet could be a game-changer.
