Amazon has quietly enabled VPN app support on its next-generation Fire TV Stick 4K Select, more than a month after the device launched. The update went live on Friday, November 28, bringing a long-awaited feature to users who rely on VPNs for privacy and streaming access.
This matters because the latest Fire TV Stick does not run Android like previous models. Instead, it uses Vega OS, a Linux-based operating system that initially launched without support for VPN applications.
Until this update, users had no straightforward way to install a VPN directly on the device.
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Only two VPNs currently support Vega OS
Despite the update, the rollout is far from complete. As of now, only two VPN providers have released apps compatible with Vega OS: NordVPN and IPVanish.
Both companies built new applications specifically for Amazon’s revised platform following the Fire TV Stick’s October launch. Other popular VPNs, including several well-known Fire TV favorites, have not yet released compatible versions.
That means users who rely on providers without Vega OS support are still unable to use a VPN directly on the new Fire TV Stick.
Why VPN support matters on Fire TV
Using a VPN on a Fire TV Stick is not just about security. VPNs encrypt internet traffic and hide a user’s real IP address, which helps protect streaming activity from ISPs, advertisers, and other third parties.
They are also widely used to access different regional versions of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+, which apply geo-restrictions to their content libraries. With a VPN, users can continue accessing their usual catalogs while traveling or explore content available in other regions.
Services like NordVPN and IPVanish also include tools to block ads, trackers, and known malicious domains, which can improve privacy and reduce interruptions during streaming sessions.
Other providers still missing in action
Some highly rated Fire TV VPNs are not yet available on Vega OS. Surfshark, often considered one of the strongest options for Fire TV devices, has not released a compatible app so far.
This leaves users with limited choice for now, especially those already subscribed to a VPN that does not yet support Amazon’s new operating system.
Amazon has not shared details on whether additional VPN integrations are coming or how quickly other providers will be able to adapt their apps.
Pricing sweeteners, for now
Both NordVPN and IPVanish are currently running aggressive Cyber Monday pricing, which may help soften the lack of alternatives for users upgrading to the new Fire TV Stick.
NordVPN, which remains one of the highest-rated VPNs overall for speed, security, and streaming access, is offering extended plans at reduced monthly rates. IPVanish has also discounted its plans, positioning itself as an option for Fire TV users who want native VPN support immediately.
Whether this limited VPN support remains a short-term issue or becomes a longer-term constraint will depend on how quickly other providers adapt to Vega OS.
For now, Fire TV Stick owners who want built-in VPN support have exactly two choices.
