Amazon has stopped releasing new Fire Sticks that support sideloading apps from outside its Appstore due to concerns about malware. The move follows years of criticism from streaming service providers who blamed Fire Sticks for enabling piracy.

The change comes with the release of Vega OS, a proprietary Linux-based system that doesn't support sideloading, unlike the previous Android-based Fire OS. This update aims to give Amazon greater control over its devices and improve security, but it also means users can no longer sideload apps from sources like the Google Play Store.

Despite claims of innovation and enhanced privacy, the new system blocks custom launchers and third-party apps that previously helped users avoid tracking and ads. This move is seen as a response to piracy concerns and heightened interest in live events for ad sales.

Aidan Marcuss, VP of Fire TV, advertising, and Appstore, defended the decision by focusing on security and privacy, stating that Amazon aims to 'innovate and deliver more capabilities' even on its least expensive devices. Critics may see this as a step towards a less open ecosystem for users.