One of the longest-running alternative marketplaces for Android is coming to an end. Amazon has confirmed it will close its Appstore on Android devices , leaving its services available only on its own devices like Fire TV and Fire Tablet. The news has generated uncertainty among users who relied on this alternative to Google Play to obtain apps and games.
Since its launch in 2011, the Amazon Appstore attempted to position itself as a viable alternative to the Google Play Store, offering promotional downloads and a rewards system using Amazon Coins . However, over time, its popularity outside the Amazon ecosystem has waned, leading the company to make this drastic decision.
The closure of the Amazon Appstore on Android is official
The e-commerce giant has informed developers and users that the Amazon Appstore on Android will be permanently shut down on August 20, 2025. This means the store will no longer be available on Android phones and tablets that are not Amazon devices.
For those who have already downloaded apps through this platform, the good news is that the apps and games will continue to work , although they will not receive updates or support after the store closes. This means that over time, some of them may become incompatible with newer versions of the operating system.
Amazon Coins are also disappearing
One of the key aspects of this store was the Amazon Coins system , a virtual currency that allowed users to purchase apps, make in-app purchases, and take advantage of discounts. However, with the closure of the Android store, Amazon Coins will also be discontinued.
From February 20, 2025, it will no longer be possible to purchase new coins, and on August 20, all unused coins will be refunded . It is important that users check their balance before this date to decide what to do with their virtual coins.
Amazon Appstore will continue on Fire TV and Fire Tablet
Although the App Store is disappearing from traditional Android devices, the company will maintain its App Store on products that are part of its ecosystem, such as Fire TV and Fire Tablet. On these devices, the store will continue to function normally , as it is the primary platform for downloading apps for systems running Fire OS.
This means that even though the App Store will disappear from Android phones and tablets, those using Amazon devices won't notice any changes . In fact, the company has made it clear that it will focus on improving the App Store experience within its own devices.
Why has Amazon made this decision?
According to an official statement, the main reason behind the closure of the Amazon Appstore on Android is that its usage on these devices was minimal compared to the traffic it receives on Fire TV and Fire Tablet. With insufficient demand outside its ecosystem, Amazon has decided to focus its efforts solely on its own devices.
In the statement, the company explained:
“We have decided to discontinue the Amazon Appstore on Android to focus our efforts on the Appstore experience on our own devices, as that is where the vast majority of our customers currently interact.”
This makes it clear that the company is looking to strengthen its ecosystem rather than compete with Google Play on Android devices.
Should you do anything before closing?
If you've downloaded apps from the Amazon Appstore on Android, it's a good idea to check your library and download any apps you want to keep. Keep in mind that after August 20, 2025, you won't be able to access these apps through the store again.
Additionally, if you have unused Amazon Coins, you can spend them before the deadline or wait for the automatic refund offered by the company.
With this move, Amazon joins the list of companies that have tried to compete with Google Play without success. While its Appstore will continue to be available on the brand's devices, for Android users in general, this alternative is coming to an end.