The Amazon Fire TV Stick Is Now Obsolete
▼ Summary
– The Fire TV Stick offers performance advantages over some built-in TV systems, loading apps faster due to its superior processor and more RAM.
– It allows you to upgrade any TV’s streaming capability to fast 4K by prioritizing display quality in the TV itself, independent of its native OS.
– The device provides strong integration with Amazon’s ecosystem, including an Alexa Voice Remote to control other smart home gadgets.
– A specific feature is its native connection to Ring Doorbells, letting you see and speak to visitors directly through your TV.
– The article concludes it is a wise investment primarily for those already using the Alexa Smart Home ecosystem without a Fire OS TV.
While the Amazon Fire TV Stick faces stiff competition from modern smart TVs and other streaming devices, it retains distinct advantages for specific users and setups. The primary benefit lies in its ability to upgrade any television, regardless of its age or built-in operating system, into a powerful 4K streaming hub. Owners report that the Stick often loads applications and content faster than many native TV platforms, thanks to its dedicated processor and RAM. This means you can prioritize picture quality and screen size when purchasing a new TV, knowing you can bypass a potentially sluggish interface by simply plugging in the Fire TV Stick. Its portability also allows you to easily move your entire streaming setup between different monitors or televisions.
A compelling reason to choose the Fire TV Stick is its deep integration with Amazon’s ecosystem. The included Alexa Voice Remote provides seamless control over a wide array of Alexa-compatible smart home devices. This transforms your television into a command center for lights, thermostats, and more. Furthermore, the device offers native integration with Ring video doorbells. If the doorbell rings while you’re watching a movie, a notification can appear on your TV screen, allowing you to see and even speak with the visitor without leaving the couch, a convenient feature for deliveries or checking on guests.
For individuals already committed to using Alexa for home automation but who lack a Fire OS television, the Fire TV Stick remains a logical and cost-effective addition. It consolidates entertainment and smart home management through a single, familiar interface. However, if you are not embedded in Amazon’s ecosystem and simply need reliable streaming, alternatives like the Roku Streaming Stick may offer a more neutral platform, or you might find your smart TV’s built-in apps are sufficient for your needs.
(Source: BGR)
