Amazon now sells Fire TV Sticks on two operating systems: the Android-based Fire OS and the newer Linux-based Vega OS. You can tell which one yours runs in a few seconds from the About screen. The distinction matters because Vega OS sticks cannot sideload apps or run Android APK files.
Quick answer: Go to Settings > My Fire TV > About and read the software line. Fire OS sticks say "Fire OS"; Vega OS sticks show "OS" with a version number starting with 1 (some reports say 2 for later releases), as opposed to Fire OS 7 or 8.
How do I check which OS my Fire TV runs?
- Open Settings > My Fire TV > About. On a TV with Fire TV built in, it is Settings > Device & Software > About.
- Read the software version line.
- If it names Fire OS, you have an Android-based stick. If it shows a plain "OS" followed by a low version number such as 1.x, it is Vega OS.
The wording can change with software updates, so if you are unsure, reply here with your exact model name.
Which sticks run which?
This list follows AFTVnews' list, updated 5 October 2026, as quoted in our sideloading guide. Amazon changes its range regularly, so re-check that guide and the stick's product page before you buy.
| Model | Operating system |
|---|---|
| Fire TV Stick HD (2024, 1st gen) | Fire OS |
| Fire TV Stick HD (2026, 2nd gen) | Vega OS |
| Fire TV Stick 4K Select | Vega OS |
| Fire TV Stick 4K (3rd gen) | Vega OS |
| Fire TV Stick 4K Plus | Fire OS |
| Fire TV Stick 4K Max | Fire OS |
| Fire TV Cube | Fire OS |
Two products are called "Fire TV Stick HD", so the name is not enough. AFTVnews says the 2026 one has Wi-Fi 6, rounded corners and "Fire TV" printed on it, while the 2024 one has Wi-Fi 5, square corners and no text.
What can and can't a Vega OS stick do?
- It installs apps from the Amazon Appstore only. There is no unknown-sources switch, and the Downloader app cannot be installed.
- It does not run Android APK files, so an Android-only app cannot be loaded.
- Reports from May 2026 said some apps, such as Kodi, Jellyfin and a full Plex client, were missing at that time. Check the Appstore for every app you need before you buy.
- Mainstream streaming apps are generally available there. Check for BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4 in the store.
What can a Fire OS stick do?
Fire OS sticks can install from the Amazon Appstore and can sideload apps from a developer's official site. Our sideloading guide explains how, and warns against "modded" or "premium unlocked" APKs.
If you are still unsure
Gather the exact model name from the box or from About, the software line as shown, and the apps you must have. If you have not bought yet, favour a Fire OS model if Android apps matter to you; our Fire TV Stick setup guide lists the same range.
Tell us what your About screen shows and whether the list above matched your stick.