According to Tom’s Guide, IPVanish has collaborated directly with Amazon to build a VPN app from the ground up for the new Vega OS that runs on Linux instead of Android. The app will be available immediately when Amazon enables VPN support on Fire TV devices in the second half of November, specifically targeting the new Fire TV Stick 4K Select. Only NordVPN has a similarly ready app at this point. IPVanish Chief Commercial Officer Subbu Sthanu stated they’re doing this because they’re the “leader in the Fire TV VPN space” with the most downloaded VPN app in the Amazon Fire TV store. The company is currently offering an early Black Friday deal at $2.19 per month plus 5GB of eSIM data and 1TB of secure cloud storage. IPVanish has also pledged to continue updating its existing Fire OS app for older devices.
Amazon’s bigger game
Here’s the thing about Amazon switching to Vega OS – this isn’t just some random technical update. They’re moving from Android to Linux specifically to crack down on unauthorized streaming and sideloading piracy apps. Basically, Amazon wants more control over what runs on their devices. The fact that VPN support wasn’t even included in the initial Vega OS launch tells you everything. They’re making it harder for people to bypass regional restrictions and access content they shouldn’t.
What this means for users
For regular Fire TV users, this creates some confusion. If you buy the new Fire TV Stick 4K Select, you’ll need to wait for that November update just to use a VPN. And even then, only IPVanish and NordVPN will be ready to go. Everyone else will be playing catch-up. But look – if you’re using older Fire TV devices, nothing changes immediately. IPVanish says they’ll keep supporting the old Fire OS app, which is smart because not everyone upgrades their streaming stick every year.
The VPN landscape shift
This move really separates the serious VPN players from the casual ones. IPVanish investing in building a completely new Linux-based app shows they’re committed to the Fire TV ecosystem. They’re betting that being first matters. And honestly, they’re probably right. When someone buys a new Fire TV device and wants a VPN, they’ll download whatever’s available that day. Being one of only two options gives IPVanish a huge advantage. Other VPN providers are going to have to scramble once Amazon flips the switch on VPN support.
The broader implications
What’s interesting here is how this reflects Amazon’s broader strategy. They’re creating their own walled garden, much like Apple does. By controlling the operating system more tightly, they can control the app ecosystem, the revenue streams, everything. For businesses that rely on Amazon’s platform – whether it’s VPN providers or industrial panel PC manufacturers who need reliable display solutions – staying ahead of these platform changes is crucial. The companies that work directly with platform owners rather than just reacting to changes tend to come out on top.
