Amazon is set to close its Appstore for the Android operating system and its Coins program this week, redirecting its services towards Fire TV and Fire Tablet devices. This strategic shift, first announced in February, marks the conclusion of a 14-year journey for the Appstore, which had positioned itself as a notable competitor to the Google Play Store on Android devices.
Transitioning Services
With the Appstore’s closure, advertisers who have been targeting Android users will need to reconsider their app promotion strategies. The Google Play Store will likely become the primary platform for these advertisements, unless brands choose to explore alternative placements within Amazon’s ecosystem. This transition follows a similar move last year when Amazon discontinued its app store for Windows.
Users will still have access to their subscriptions on Fire TV, Fire Tablet, and devices with Fire TV built-in. Additionally, they will have the option to cancel their subscriptions and receive refunds for any that extend beyond August 20, 2025. Amazon has advised users to migrate to available apps on the Google Play Store and has recommended deleting any remaining apps on their Android devices to mitigate potential data vulnerabilities.
End of an Era for Amazon Coins
Alongside the Appstore, Amazon will also be discontinuing its Coins program, a virtual currency that allowed users to purchase apps, games, and in-app items from the Amazon Appstore. Launched in 2013, Amazon Coins were valued at approximately one cent each and could be purchased in discounted bundles. They functioned similarly to prepaid credits rather than a cryptocurrency, primarily used on Fire tablets, Fire TV, and Android devices with the Amazon Appstore installed.
As the company continues to streamline its services, any remaining Amazon Coins in user accounts after August 20, 2025, will be refunded, ensuring a smooth transition for users as they navigate these changes.
