Amazon has made the decision to phase out its Android app store, with the final day of operation set for August 20, 2025. Developers were notified that, effective immediately, they can no longer submit new applications aimed at Android devices. While users can continue to access apps already downloaded from the Amazon app store, the company has stated that it cannot guarantee their functionality without ongoing updates or support. However, updates for existing apps will still be accepted until the shutdown date.
Impact on Amazon’s Ecosystem
Despite this significant change, the Amazon app store will remain operational on Amazon’s proprietary devices, such as Fire tablets and Fire TV, which utilize Fire OS, a customized version of Android. This strategic pivot effectively narrows the app store’s reach, aligning it more closely with Amazon’s hardware offerings. Earlier this year, in March 2024, Amazon also ceased operations of the Appstore on Windows 11 devices via the Microsoft Store.
In a recent blog post, Amazon reassured customers, stating, “Customers can continue to discover and install apps during this period. However, after August 20, 2025, the apps installed from Amazon Appstore for Android are not guaranteed to operate.”
Despite Amazon’s attempts to compete with Google’s Play Store—such as its involvement in the Epic v. Google legal case—the Appstore has struggled to capture a significant share of the market. Currently, Apple and Google dominate the app store landscape, commanding over 95% of the global market share, excluding China.
The decision to discontinue the app store for Android devices reflects the resource-intensive nature of maintaining a separate app ecosystem. It appears that Amazon is choosing to concentrate its efforts in areas where it has a stronger foothold, particularly with its own devices. To date, the Amazon Appstore has been accessible in over 200 countries, supporting a variety of platforms including Android devices, Fire tablets, Fire TV, and select Blackberry devices.
In conjunction with the app store closure, Amazon will also be discontinuing its Amazon Coins program, a virtual currency used for purchasing apps and in-app items. As of now, Amazon Coins are no longer available for purchase, and any remaining balances will be refunded after August 20. Further details regarding this transition are expected to be released soon.
Additionally, Amazon clarified in its FAQ section that starting February 20, 2025, customers in the JP marketplace will be unable to make in-app purchases or earn and redeem Amazon Points on the Amazon Appstore for Android devices. However, users will still have the opportunity to earn and redeem Amazon Points through the JP Amazon Appstore on Fire Tablets or at Amazon.co.jp.
This announcement comes on the heels of Amazon reporting better-than-expected earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024, with net sales rising by 10% to 7.8 billion, compared to 0.0 billion in the same quarter of the previous year.
