Amazon pulls the plug on its Android app store
What's the story
Amazon has announced that it will shut down its 'Appstore' for Android devices on August 20, 2025.
After this date, the apps downloaded from this platform on Android hardware may not work. However, they will continue to work on Amazon's own devices like Fire TV and Fire Tablets.
The company's virtual currency program, Coins, for select Appstore app and in-app purchases, will also end on the same day.
Developer impact
Amazon halts new app submissions, promises refunds
Amazon has also told developers that they won't be able to submit new apps for inclusion in the store.
The company has assured users on a support page that any remaining Coins they possess as of August 20, will be refunded.
Notably, this decision primarily affects a small fraction of customers who used the app store on non-Amazon devices.
Strategy change
Amazon's shift in focus to own devices
Explaining the decision to kill the Appstore on Android, a company spokesperson said they want to focus their efforts on improving the Appstore experience on Amazon's own devices.
This is because most of their customers use it primarily through these devices.
Notably, the Appstore was launched as part of Amazon's plan to take on Google and create an alternative app store ecosystem.
Safety issues
Amazon's Appstore faced security concerns
Back in 2021, security researchers from McAfee Labs found an app on the Amazon Appstore disguised as a health tool but actually spreading malware.
The incident had raised concerns about the safety of third-party app stores like Amazon's.
The company had been running its own app store since 2011, even using it to prop up its failed Fire Phone project.