Alexa Tablet: Amazon stellt neue Tablets auf Android-System um

Amazon is transitioning its new tablet computers to Google's Android operating system, marking a shift from its previous Fire OS. The fresh models bear the name "Alexa Tablet," as Amazon's assistant software is deeply integrated within them. Apps now download directly from Google's Play Store. The older Fire Tablets will initially continue to receive support.

While Fire OS was Amazon's proprietary Android variant, lacking Google services, the new flagship model is the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro. It features a 12-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio and is also available in a matte finish to reduce glare, developed through a collaboration with glass specialist Corning. Amazon's assistant, Alexa+, can capture and analyze screen content and act on user requests when enabled.

Users can activate Alexa through voice commands or via an input field at the lower right corner of the screen. Each Alexa Tablet connects to all Amazon services post-login, and a keyboard with magnetic attachment and a stylus are included as accessories. The stylus specifically emphasizes the matte display's feel closer to paper writing.

Reading on the tablet mimics a Kindle experience by muting notifications and reducing blue tones in the display light. The switch to Android was driven by improvements enabling multi-window app support and optimized memory handling. This has allowed Amazon to offer a starter version with 8 GB RAM at a relatively lower price, considering the recent surge in AI computing center chip prices.

Amazon is content with a reduced margin to offset these price increases. The Alexa Tablet 12 Pro is priced at 499.99 and 559.99 Euros with standard and matte displays respectively. Variants with 16 GB RAM and 11-inch and 8-inch displays are also available. The kid-friendly version will be called the Amazon Kids Tablet, bundled with protective cases in 8.7 and 11-inch sizes.