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Why Amazon’s new Fire TV Stick 4K is making news

Updated

“Stick” is trending in the news because Amazon has launched a new Fire TV Stick 4K, with coverage focused on faster performance, a redesigned remote and simpler setup. The streaming device is slimmer, and Amazon says it is the fastest model it has produced. The company also claims it powers up faster and launches apps more than 35% faster than competing products. Those performance claims are part of the attention surrounding the launch.

The practical changes are another focus. The new Stick can draw power directly from a TV’s USB port, so it no longer requires a separate power adapter. Its redesigned remote is described as easier to use, especially in the dark. Amazon is also adding an Alexa+ Hub to the Fire TV interface. Together, these updates explain the current headlines: they cover not just speed, but changes to how users set up and control the device.

The coverage

This explainer is written from the reports listed above. Follow any headline for the original coverage.

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