Amazon is bringing the same software that runs on its second-gen Fire TV products to its older models. The Fire OS 5 update is now starting to roll out for the original Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick.
Among other things, that means folks with first-gen hardware can use the Alexa digital assistant. But as an owner of two Fire TV Sticks, I’m much more excited about: support for Bluetooth accessories.
Fire OS 5.0 was introduced with the launch of the Amazon Fire TV 2 and Amazon Fire TV Stick with voice remote. One of the most obvious differences between Fire OS 5 and earlier versions of the Fire TV operating system is that it includes the same Alexa software available for the Amazon Echo. Just speak into the mic in your remote control or smartphone app and you can ask your Fire TV questions, tell it to play music, set reminders, read audiobooks, and more.
For the most part, the new operating system doesn’t look any different. But in addition to Alexa support, it will also allow first-gen Fire TV Stick users to connect a Bluetooth mouse, keyboard, or headphones.
That could make it easier to play games, enter text, or listen to audio without disturbing other people in the room.
AFTV News reports that the Fire OS 5 started arriving for some users on February 2nd, and it should be continue to roll out to additional users in the coming weeks. I couldn’t find a press release or official update from Amazon, but The Verge and TechCrunch seem to have received confirmation that the update is indeed starting to roll out.
Incidentally, the original Fire TV Stick is currently on sale for $35 (or $5 off), while the new Fire TV Stick is available for $40 ($10 off).