May 6, 2026, 10:04 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Amazon is one of the most well-known providers in the streaming sector with its Fire TV Sticks. The devices are relatively inexpensive and therefore widespread. The first generation was released in 2014, followed by the second version two years later. Since then, Amazon has released several new models. However, older devices eventually reach their technical limits as streaming quality, resolution, and user interfaces continue to evolve.
Other devices such as smartphones or computers are also affected by this development. Against this backdrop, it seems understandable that Amazon has discontinued software support for older Fire TV Sticks. In December 2022, the first generation was affected, and in March 2023, the successor model. Nevertheless, this step is now occupying a court in the U.S.
Allegation of Planned Obsolescence
A user from California has filed a lawsuit against Amazon. According to a report by the online magazine “Android Police,” he accuses the company of deliberately rendering the devices unusable. The goal was allegedly to push customers to purchase new models. The lawsuit mentions “planned obsolescence.” This accusation has previously been made against other tech manufacturers.
The plaintiff argues that the affected Fire TV Sticks performed significantly worse after the end of software support. He cites failures, choppy playback, and long loading times, among other issues. He also mentions “bricking,” or deliberately disabling the devices. Whether these allegations are true and how the class action will turn out is currently open.
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Lack of Information on Support
A potential weak point for Amazon could be the communication surrounding software support. When selling the first Fire TV Sticks, the company did not specify how long updates would be provided. It wasn’t until 2021 that timelines for software support of the devices were published. This step came after criticism arose over the discontinuation of support for older products. There is no official statement on the current lawsuit yet. However, users in the U.S. have the option to join the class action.