Amazon has launched its new Fire TV Stick 4K, which can draw power directly from a TV’s USB port, eliminating the need for a separate power adapter. The device, priced at $59.99, runs on Amazon’s refreshed TV OS and includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and Bluetooth Low Energy. The Fire TV Stick 4K replaces the earlier 'Select' and 'Plus' models, simplifying Amazon’s streaming stick lineup to four devices: Fire TV Stick HD, Fire TV Stick 4K, Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and Fire TV Cube.

The new remote, which is also launching alongside the device, features a redesigned shape and tactile controls. It is compatible with all Amazon Ember TVs and Fire TV devices from 2019 onward. The remote is available separately for $14.99 and will begin shipping in late October. Amazon plans to release a 'Plus' version of the remote early next year, with an aluminum design, backlit buttons, and a 'Find My Remote' feature.

The Fire TV Stick 4K is marketed as 20% to 40% faster than leading competitors, with an 8GB internal storage, a quad-core 1.7 GHz processor, and support for multiple video formats including HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, H.265, H.264, VP9, and AV1. It can output at 2160p, 1080p, and 720p resolutions at up to 60 frames per second. The remote includes a home button that can be felt in the dark, a favorites button for programmed shortcuts, and a more tactile D-pad with a click.

Amazon has also introduced software updates for Fire TV, including an Alexa Plus Hub and integration in the Fire TV mobile app. The AI now draws on real-world context like awards and events to provide more complex show and movie suggestions. Amazon Music is also getting a new Fire TV app with Alexa Plus integration for music and podcast recommendations.

The Fire TV Stick 4K is initially available in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Australia, and New Zealand. The remote will ship in late October. Some technical specifications, such as the exact performance improvements and user feedback on the remote, remain unclear.