Streaming entertainment on the go just got a whole lot easier thanks to Amazon‘s new Fire TV for Auto! As your resident tech expert, let me walk you through everything this innovative in-car system has to offer.
Integrating Fire TV‘s robust streaming platform directly into new model vehicles creates an entirely new viewing experience for passengers. But it does come with some unique benefits and considerations you should know about.
I‘ll provide an in-depth look at Fire TV for Auto so you can decide if having unlimited movies, TV shows, music and more at your fingertips in the car is right for you. Let‘s dive in!
Bringing Fire TV Convenience to the Road
Now you can seamlessly pick up watching your favorite shows whether you‘re parked on the couch or cruising down the highway. Fire TV for Auto allows you to sync your existing Fire TV account to access downloaded content and watch anything you‘ve been binging at home.
According to a Nielsen study, the average American adult already streams over 8 hours of content every week. That number will surely rise thanks to the convenience of Fire TV built right into new vehicles.
The system runs using the same Fire TV software that powers Amazon‘s streaming devices. That means you‘ll have quick access to over 500,000 movies and shows from services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc.
Fire TV for Auto also includes the entire catalog of streaming apps, Alexa voice assistant, and casual games you’d find on a Firestick. Let’s look at some of the key features and technology inside Fire TV for Auto next.
Feature Rundown: How Fire TV for Auto Stacks Up
| Feature | Fire TV for Auto | Fire TV Stick 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 720p to 1080p | 2160p 4K Ultra HD |
| Processor | Quad-core 1.5 GHz | Quad-core 1.7 GHz |
| Built-in Storage | 32GB | 8GB |
| WiFi Connectivity | 5 GHz MIMO | Dual-band,MIMO |
| Alexa Support | Yes | Yes |
| Streaming Apps | Over 500 | Over 500 |
As you can see in the table above, Fire TV for Auto can more than hold its own against Amazon‘s standalone streaming devices.
The built-in version was engineered specifically for in-car use with touchscreen displays and enough processing power and storage for seamless streaming. You also get support for connecting to the vehicle‘s high-speed WiFi hotspot.
Let‘s look at how Fire TV for Auto is being implemented in new vehicles hitting the market now.
Which Cars Offer Fire TV Integration?
To date, Jeep is the only auto manufacturer that has unveiled specific models featuring Fire TV for Auto:
- 2022 Jeep Wagoneer
- 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
In these SUVs, Fire TV touchscreens are mounted on the backs of the front headrests, dedicated for use by rear seat passengers. Up to four displays can be installed depending on the trim package.
Amazon has hinted at plans to bring Fire TV for Auto into future vehicles from other major brands like BMW and Chrysler. More widespread availability across auto manufacturers is expected in coming years.
Using Fire TV for Auto as a Passenger
Okay, so your new car has Fire TV built-in. How do you actually use it as a passenger? The experience is designed to be very intuitive for anyone familiar with Fire TV.
You can navigate the touchscreen with easy swiping and tapping, similar to a tablet. Voice commands through the Alexa remote are also supported. Connect your Amazon account to access all your content and personalization.
A unique perk is the ability to download movies and shows to watch offline later. This prevents streaming hiccups in areas with low cell signal. You can queue up downloads over home WiFi before longer road trips.
Gaming on Fire TV is another great way to pass time in the car. Popular casual games and Alexa skills keep passengers engaged. The Fire TV remote or connected game controllers provide control.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Vehicle with Fire TV
While access to unlimited entertainment content in the car sounds enticing, Fire TV for Auto does come with a few caveats to think over.
Proper placement of Fire TV screens is crucial to avoid driver distractions and vision obstruction. Screens should only be accessible and visible to rear passengers per safety recommendations.
Streaming hours of high-def video can also rack up serious mobile data usage and overage charges. Downloading over WiFi helps mitigate this. Parents may want to impose limits on usage as well.
There are also inherent limitations in watching content clearly in a moving vehicle and exposure to more intense sunlight. Glare, reflection and motion can degrade the viewing experience.
Fire TV for Auto holds a lot of promise for the future of in-car entertainment if used responsibly. I hope breaking down the key details gives you a better idea of what to expect! Let me know if any other questions come to mind.
