Amazon launches slimmer Fire TV Stick HD and opens Ember Artline TVs for preorder

On Wednesday, Amazon announced the release of its updated Fire TV Stick HD and the Ember Artline television lineup, both of which are now available for preorder.

After first introducing the original Fire TV Stick HD two years ago, Amazon has now developed a redesigned version that it describes as the slimmest streaming stick it has produced so far. When the Fire TV Stick HD debuted in 2024, it was positioned as an entry-level streaming device, effectively replacing both the earlier Fire TV Stick and the Fire TV Stick Lite. This consolidation was part of Amazon's effort to simplify its Fire TV device portfolio by merging two basic options into a single offering.

The newly introduced version is approximately 30% thinner than its predecessor, making it more portable while still maintaining performance. In addition to the slimmer design, Amazon says the device runs about 30% faster, allowing apps to open and operate more efficiently. The upgraded model also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, improving connectivity and overall performance.

A major highlight of the Fire TV Stick HD is the inclusion of Alexa+, Amazon's AI-powered assistant. Users in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom can use voice commands to search for shows, get details about actors, or control smart home devices through the integrated AI capabilities.

Amazon is also preparing to roll out a new feature called "Adaptive Display" for the HD model, aimed at improving accessibility. This setting enhances readability by enlarging text, menus, and other on-screen elements while proportionally adjusting artwork to keep the interface visually balanced. Users will be able to choose from multiple size settings to personalise their viewing experience. According to the company, this feature will be introduced in the coming months.

The Fire TV Stick HD is priced at $34.99 and is currently open for preorder. Shipping is expected to begin on April 29 across several markets, including Canada, Mexico, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

Alongside the streaming device, Amazon has also opened preorders for its Ember Artline televisions, which are positioned as competitors to Samsung Frame TV. Initially revealed at CES 2026, these televisions are designed with a strong focus on both visual appeal and practical features.

One of the key design elements is the availability of 10 interchangeable magnetic frames that attach to the TV's edges. These frames come in finishes such as Walnut, Ash, Teak, Black Oak, Matte White, Midnight Blue, Fig, Pale Gold, Graphite, and Silver, allowing users to match the TV to their interior decor better.

The Ember Artline series also includes an AI-driven feature called "Match the Room," which helps users select artwork that fits the environment where the TV is placed. The TVs provide access to more than 2,000 free artworks, and users can also link their devices to Amazon Photos to expand their image collection for display.

Similar to the Fire TV Stick HD, the Ember Artline televisions integrate Alexa+, enabling voice-based control for browsing content, managing playback, and interacting with supported services.

In addition, Amazon is introducing a new feature for U.S. customers that simplifies the process of moving content between Fire TV devices. Using voice commands, users can transfer a TV show or live sports event from one Fire TV device to another. The company says this functionality will initially support Prime Video and gradually extend to additional services.

The Ember Artline televisions feature a slim 1.5-inch design and a 4K QLED display with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support. They are available in 55-inch and 65-inch variants, with pricing starting at $899.99. Preorders are now open, and shipments are scheduled to begin on April 22 in the United States and Canada, followed by releases in the United Kingdom and Germany.