Amazon has been shutting down several services recently, likely as part of efforts to reduce operating costs in areas where adjustments can be made. The latest development indicates that the company will be discontinuing its App Store for Android devices later this year.
Amazon has long positioned its App Store as an alternative to Google’s Play Store, but it now appears to be shifting its focus toward its own devices and ecosystem.
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Amazon App Store Is Shutting Down—Here’s Why
The company has officially announced that the Amazon App Store for Android will cease operations on August 20 this year. Developers have already been informed to stop submitting new apps. This decision does not come as a major surprise, given that most Android users have continued to rely primarily on the Play Store for downloading apps and games, leaving Amazon’s App Store with limited traction.
While Android users do have the flexibility to sideload alternative app stores, the majority have stuck with Google’s default option. With limited engagement, Amazon has now opted to retire the service. However, the App Store will continue to operate on Amazon’s own devices, including Fire TV, Fire HD tablets, and other proprietary platforms.
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Alongside the closure of the App Store, Amazon is also discontinuing its Amazon Coins program, which is no longer accessible to customers. The program allowed users to purchase apps and games, and those with remaining coins in their accounts will receive refunds.
Meanwhile, Amazon is gearing up for its Alexa AI event later this month, where the company is expected to reveal updates to its voice assistant, incorporating significant AI advancements.
