.jfif)
Amazon Ends 14-Year Run of Free Appstore on Android
Amazon is retiring its free Amazon Appstore for Android devices after a notable 14-year run—as of August 20, 2025, the platform will no longer be accessible for Android users. Originally launched in 2011, the Appstore served as a viable alternative to Google Play, providing users with more than half a million apps and incorporating Amazon’s proprietary virtual currency, Amazon Coins.
The Street
The Sun
Android Central
The End of an Era for Android Users
Launched in 2011, the Amazon Appstore allowed Android users to download and purchase a range of apps independently from Google Play. Over the years, it became known for Amazon’s promotional offerings, such as “Free App of the Day,” and its integration with Amazon Coins, which allowed users to make app purchases using a proprietary credit system.
The Street
The Sun
Despite its longevity, Amazon is now withdrawing from the Android app marketplace. Starting August 20, 2025, users will lose access to the Appstore on Android. The service will continue to exist on Amazon’s own devices, including Fire TVs and Fire Tablets, where it remains the primary app marketplace.
The Sun
Android Central
The Street
Amazon Coins Discontinued and Refunds Issued
With the Appstore’s shutdown comes the end of Amazon Coins—the virtual currency used for app and in-app purchases. Users will no longer be able to purchase Coins, and those with unused balances must act before the August 20 deadline. Any remaining Coins will be refunded automatically after that date.
The Sun
The Sun
Android Central
The Street
Strategic Shift to Internal Ecosystem
Amazon attributed the shutdown to a strategic shift. Citing that the “overwhelming majority” of Appstore users access it through Amazon’s own devices, the company decided to focus its efforts on its proprietary ecosystem. This move aligns with broader consolidation efforts across Amazon’s services.
Android Central
The Street
The Sun
Additionally, Amazon’s recent financial reporting shows a surge in revenue from subscription services—including app-related revenue. It suggests that Amazon is reinforcing its core buying channels to maximize profitability and user engagement.
The Street
Impacts on Users
Android users: Post-August 20, apps downloaded via the Appstore may no longer function reliably, as there is no guarantee for continued operation.
Android Central
The Street
Amazon Coins holders: Must use or redeem their unused Coins before the cutoff; refunds will follow automatically.
The Sun
The Sun
Android Central
The Street
Fire device users (TV/Tablets): The Appstore remains fully operational and unaffected by this change.
The Sun
Android Central
The Street
Summary
Service Status After August 20, 2025
Amazon Appstore on Android Discontinued; access ends and apps may fail
Amazon Coins Discontinued; unused balances refunded
Amazon Appstore on Fire Devices Continues as usual
After 14 years of operation, Amazon is bidding farewell to its Android Appstore, closing a chapter in its approach to third-party app distribution. This move underscores Amazon’s increasing focus on its proprietary ecosystem and streamlining user experience across its own devices.
Let me know if you’d like this adjusted for a blog, press release, or tailored to a specific audience!
.jfif)