Amazon is rumored to be crafting its own operating system, code-named Vega, to replace the current forked version of Android running on its tablets, smart TVs, and home devices, according to reports from Janko Roettgers at Lowpass.

Sources suggest that Amazon has been quietly working on Vega since 2017, and the company has allegedly tested it on Fire TV streaming adapters. Partners have been informed of Amazon’s intention to make the switch, marking a significant departure from its reliance on Android.

The development of Vega appears to be well underway, with job listings, reference materials, and insider sources pointing to a robust effort within Amazon’s Device OS division. The new operating system, based on Linux, is designed to be web-forward and is expected to bring enhanced performance to Amazon’s range of devices.

Insiders hint that Amazon may start shipping Fire TVs equipped with Vega as early as 2024. The ambitious plan extends beyond just streaming devices; Amazon is reportedly eyeing a shift to Vega across various products, including car entertainment systems, marking a comprehensive departure from Android.

So, why the break-up with Android? Roettgers outlines a few reasons. Firstly, Android’s surplus code proves to be unnecessary baggage for smart home devices. Additionally, Amazon’s Fire OS has lagged behind, tethered to Android Open Source Project and stuck at versions 10 and 11 while newer Android releases have hit the market. There’s also the looming threat of potential Google restrictions on manufacturers producing Amazon-powered TVs.

While there’s no official release date, Roettgers asserts that “most of the OS development is already done.” Amazon is said to be actively working on an SDK and offering enticing incentives to attract developers to embrace the new operating system.