Kindle and Fire Tablet Guides

Fire Max 11 is the first Amazon tablet with active stylus pen support (and fingerprint support). And Amazon released the official accessory for it: Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11.

This Amazon Fire tablet how-to guide explains the difference between an active stylus pen and a capacitive stylus, the key features and functions of the Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11, how to use it in different apps, how to customize the settings for it, and answers to questions you may have on using the Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11 on Fire Max 11.

Because Fire Max 11 supports an active stylus (USI 2.0) and Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11 is essentially a USI 2.0 active pen, it is necessary to explain the difference between active and capacitive styluses first.

Active stylus pen vs. capacitive stylus

For tablets, currently, there are two types of stylus in the market:

• Capacitive.
• Active. There are different types of active pens. Fire Max 11 only supports USI 2.0 active pen. For example, you can NOT use the S Pen (a Wacom Electromagnetic Resonance type active Pen) on Fire Max 11. Of course, Apple Pencil does not work either.

We do not include the old PDA-era resistive stylus because it has been almost out of the tablet market.

The difference between active and capacitive styluses can be highlighted from these 5 aspects.

1. Compatibility with touchscreens

Generally speaking, the capacitive stylus is compatible with all touchscreens found in all tablets (including Android tablets and iPads) in the market today. If you can use your finger on the screen, then a capacitive stylus should work.… Read the rest

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Fire Max 11 is the first Amazon tablet with a fingerprint reader (embedded in the power button). You use the corresponding fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11 to unlock the tablet quickly. Some apps may also opt to use it in the future.

This Fire tablet how-to guide explains what the fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11 is, its limitations, how to register your fingerprints for the fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11, and how to use it on Fire Max 11.

Fire Max 11 is also the first Fire tablet with active pen support. Please check this guide for using the active stylus on Fire Max 11.

What is fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11?

To save costs, Amazon did not add a fingerprint reader on all previous Fire tablets. Fire Max 11 is the first Fire tablet that comes with it, and Amazon simply named it Fingerprint ID in Fire OS 8.

The fingerprint reader (sensor) on Fire Max 11 is embedded into the power button. This means you can use the fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11 by simply putting your finger on the power button.

The capacitive fingerprint sensor is actually way better (user-friendly and faster) than the fancy under-display fingerprint reader found in many “flagship” devices like Galaxy S23 or Google Pixel 7 Pro. Very likely, it is also cheaper.

Theoretically, you can use fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11 to:

1. Unlock the tablet.
2. Authenticate yourself in apps that support fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11.

For the latter, it seems there are no apps supporting the fingerprint ID on Fire Max 11. Apps installed from the Google Play Store will not support the fingerprint ID, even if they support similar features in other Android devices.… Read the rest

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Amazon Fire tablet (Fire 7, Fire HD 8, Fire HD 10, and Fire Max 11) is the most affordable Android tablet on the planet. Fire Tablet Buyer's Guide 2023 will help you decide:

• Is a Fire tablet right for me?
• Which Fire tablet is for me?
• How to get the best deal on a Fire tablet.

In this Fire Tablet Buyer's Guide 2023, I will first explain the difference between the Fire tablet and the Android tablet, when you may consider buying a Fire tablet, and when you should not consider the Fire tablet at all. The current (2023) models of Amazon Fire tablets are compared to explain the differences among these available models in 2023. You can then decide whether to get the 7″ Fire 7 or 8″ and 10″ HD or 11″ Fire max tablet based on your budget usage, portability, and special needs.

Fire Tablet Buyer's Guide 2023 also explains what are the additional features or upgrades in the Plus version for Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 10. Kids edition is also discussed in detail so that you may know whether you should consider it.

This Fire Tablet Buyer's Guide 2023 finally explains why you should not buy a Fire tablet of the old generation and why you should avoid the refurbished Fire tablet.

Difference between the Fire tablet and the Android tablet

Amazon Fire tablet is not exactly an Android tablet, although it is often quoted as the most affordable Android tablet.

Amazon Fire tablet differs from a “normal” Android tablet in a few aspects, including:

• No official Google Play Store access. The official app store is Amazon's Appstore, whose app pool is less than 1/100 of Google Play.

… Read the rest

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The Amazon Fire Max 11 is the latest addition (13th Gen) to Amazon's lineup of the Amazon Fire tablet.

With its stunning display, faster CPU and more RAM, 14-hour battery life, improved (8MP) camera sensor, elevated multitasking capabilities, immersive audio, a fingerprint sensor, 64/128GB storage, premium design and build, and keyboard and stylus support, the Amazon Fire Max 11 is designed to be a “premium” Fire tablet. However, it is not the reborn of the discontinued HDX series.

In this post, the top 10 new features of Amazon Fire Max 11 will be discussed to help you understand the uniqueness of Amazon Fire Max 11. The issues of this tablet will be discussed in this article (coming soon).

Stunning Display: Fire Max 11's Immersive Screen

One of the standout new features of the Fire Max 11 is its stunning display.

Amazon Fire Max 11's large (11 inches as suggested by the name), high-resolution (2000*1200) screen offers a wider field of view, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in their favorite movies, games, and online content.

The vibrant colors produced by the Fire Max 11's display add depth and richness to images, bringing them to life in a way that is both striking and realistic. Whether it's the vivid hues of a scenic landscape or the vibrant costumes of characters in a movie, the screen accurately reproduces every shade and tone, creating a visually stunning spectacle.

Surprisingly, the gorgeous display does not support HDR10+.

Powerful Performance: Faster CPU and more RAM

Amazon finally upgraded the entry-level SoC to a higher spectrum (although it is still in the entry-level category) for the Fire Max 11. A “powerful” octa-core processor (MediaTek MTK8188J) -with 2x ARM Cortex-A78 up to 2.2Ghz and 6xARM Cortex-A55 up to 2Ghz.… Read the rest

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With the release of Fire OS 8 on the 12th Gen Fire 7 (Fire 7 2022) and Fire HD 8 (Fire HD 8 2022), Dark theme on Fire tablets is now available in these devices, and the Fire Max 11 (13th Gen).

This Fire tablet how-to guide explains the advantages of the Dark Theme on Fire tablets, the difference between the Night Mode, Blue Shed, and Dark Theme, how to turn on/off the Dark Theme on Fire tablets with Fire OS 8, and how to schedule Dark theme on Fire tablets.

Dark Theme was introduced in Fire OS 8. So, this guide applies to Amazon Fire tablets with Fire OS 8.

Why do you need the Dark Theme on Fire tablets?

Dark Theme, aka system-wide dark theme, was officially introduced in Android 10. It allows you to show content in a dark background on the screen.

Fire OS 8, which is based on Android 10, implemented the Dark Theme on Fire tablets without messing it up.

The advantages of using the Dark Theme include the following:

• Reduce eye strain, especially in a low-light environment.
• Make the screen more comfortable (arguable) for most users in most situations.
• Improve visibility for users with low vision and those who are sensitive to bright light.
• Reduce battery usage (therefore, increase battery life) if adaptive brightness is available and enabled.

Fire 7 (all generations) does not have a light sensor. Therefore, it will not benefit from the longer battery life when enabling the Dark Theme. Fire HD 8 (including Fire HD 8 Plus) and Fire HD 10 (including Fire HD 10 Plus) support adaptable brightness.

For most Fire tablet owners, you may just leave the Dark Theme on in most situations.… Read the rest

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Quick Settings on Fire tablets lets you enable or disable some features instantly without going through the Settings app.

This Fire tablet how-to guide explains what the Quick Settings on Fire tablets is, how to access the Quick Settings panel on a Fire tablet, the differences in Quick Settings among Fire OS 5, Fire OS 7, and Fire OS 8, and how to use and customize the Quick Setting buttons.

Although the illustration and screenshots are based on Fire OS 8, this guide applies to most Fire tablets, including Fire 7 (12th Gen), Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 8+ (12th Gen), and Fire Max 11(13th Gen).

What is Quick Settings on Fire tablets?

Quick Settings on Fire tablets is simply a special panel that lets you turn on/off some frequently used features without fiddling around the Settings.

For example, if you want to turn on (or off) Bluetooth on a Fire tablet without Quick Settings, you need 5 steps.

1. Navigate to the Home screen (you may have to leave the app you are using).
2. Locate the Settings app.
3. Open the Settings app.
4. Tap Connected devices.
5. Tap Bluetooth

With Quick Settings on Fire tablets, it will take you two steps to turn on/off Bluetooth:

1. Without leaving the app you are using, swipe down from the top of the screen with two fingers.
2. Tap the Bluetooth button.

So, it is a matter of “efficiency” if you can use Quick Settings on Fire tablets. The Quick Settings is even available when you are on the lock screen.

Like all other Android devices (although Amazon tried hard to hide “Android” in Fire tablets), all Fire tablets offer the Quick Settings feature.… Read the rest

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You can use two different methods to take a screenshot on a Fire tablet without using any apps.

This Fire tablet how-to guide explains the two methods to easily take screenshots on a Fire tablet: the power button + Volume down key method on all Fire tablets and using the power-off menu in Fire OS 7 and 8. The guide also shows you how to edit and share screenshots on Fire tablets.

The results are identical. The two methods will take the same screenshots.

This guide covers all generations of Fire 7, Fire HD 8, Fire HD 10, Kindle Fire, Kindle Fire HDX 7, and Kindle Fire HDX 8.9.

Why do you need to take screenshots on a Fire tablet?

Occasionally, you may need to share what's shown on the screen with others or keep a record for yourself.

Sometimes, you may want to show the game progress or show others how to use some apps (or ask for help).

Or you find some interesting illustrations/info in a magazine or a book and want to check them later.

In all these cases, you may need to take screenshots on a Fire tablet. Taking photos for a screen with another device is always a challenge. Screenshots make it easy.

There are at least two methods to take a screenshot on a Fire tablet without using any apps. We now go through them one by one.

Method 1: Use the Power button + Volume down button to take a screenshot on a Fire tablet

Like on any Android phone or tablet, you can simultaneously press and hold the power button and the Volume down button to take a screenshot on a Fire tablet, as shown in the picture below.… Read the rest

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Fire Tablet Buying Guide helps you make informed decisions when considering buying an Amazon Fire tablet or buying accessories for your Fire tablet.

There are too many options for buying a tablet. But everyone may have unique expectations, and therefore, you may feel you cannot find the tablet you want.

Similarly, when coming to accessories for your Fire tablet, you may also be overwhelmed by the choices. But you cannot find one for your tablet.

This Fire tablet buying guide page lists our in-depth guide explaining each Fire tablet's differences, pros and cons and some accessories to help you get the right device based on your needs, budget, and expected usage.

Various types of Fire tablet buying guides are listed here to cater to different groups of readers. For example, some may consider a Fire tablet or other non-Fire tablets. Some may consider the model or generations of the Fire tablet. Some may want to get suggestions on accessories. Some may have questions about some Amazon services, for example, Kids+.

So, the format and length of each Fire tablet buying guide may differ significantly from others.

New Fire tablet buying guides will be added regularly. So, you may check back later if you cannot find the buying guides you need. You can also leave your questions in the comment box below. The community will help you.

Here is the list of released and coming-soon Fire tablet buying guides.

#9. Fire Tablet Buyer’s Guide 2023

In this Fire Tablet Buyer's Guide 2023, I will first explain the difference between the Fire tablet and the Android tablet, when you may consider buying a Fire tablet, and when you should not consider the Fire tablet at all.… Read the rest

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Get a new Fire tablet? These how-to guides are for you.

Set up a Fire tablet for your kids? These how-to guides will help you.

This page lists our how-to guides on using the Amazon Fire tablet or settings up the tablet for your kids. All guides are packed with detailed, step-by-step instructions so that anyone can follow them easily.

We mainly focus on frequently used features of the Fire tablet, instead of the “advanced” features, to help all types of users, from new to seasoned Amazon Fire tablet users.

Each guide is normally self-sustained and independent from others. It solves one problem or demonstrates one feature. So you can quickly find the solution you need. There are no “prerequisites” for any of the Fire tablet how-to guides.

Currently, the following devices are covered by the Fire tablet how-to guides:

• Fire 7
• Fire 7 Kids
• Fire HD 8
• Fire HD 8 Kids
• Fire HD 8 Kids Pro
• Fire HD 8 Plus
• Fire HD 10
• Fire HD 10 Kids
• Fire HD 10 Kids Pro
• Fire HD 10 Plus
• Fire Max 11
• Fire HDX (legacy)

We release and update these Fire tablet how-to guides after we test them or when there are some changes in the said feature.

So, the list will be updated regularly. You may check back later if you cannot find the guide you want. Alternatively, you can leave your question in the comment box below. We will try to help you answer the question. We may also speed up the release of the relevant guides.

Here is the list of the released and coming-soon how-to guides for Fire tablets.

#15. The Definite Guide on Amazon Stylus Pen for Fire Max 11

Fire Max 11 is the first Amazon tablet with active stylus pen support (and fingerprint support).… Read the rest

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Fire OS 8 is the latest (2022) Operating System (OS) for Fire tablets. It was announced on May 18, 2022.

This Fire tablet how-to guide explains everything you need to know about Fire OS 8: relation to Android versions, new features (and how to use them), supported devices, and about sideloading Google Play Store.

This guide applies to all models (standard, Kids, Kids Pro, Plus) of Fire 7 2022 (12th Gen), Fire HD 8 2022 (12th Gen), and Fire Max 11 (2023, 13th Gen).

Relation to Android versions

Fire OS is essentially a fork of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). And each version of Fire OS has parity with a specific version of Android. So, you can run most Android apps on Fire tablets even if they are not available in the Amazon Appstore.

Of course, Amazon removed almost all Google services, including Google Play Store, and replaced them with their own offering. Therefore, technically speaking, Google services are NOT supported on Fire tablets. Even worse, Amazon tightened the controls of the Fire OS. It is almost impossible to make Google Play Store and other Google services work on Fire OS 8 (read on).

Unlike previous versions of Fire OS, Fire OS 8 is based on two versions of Android: Android 10 and Android 11. It is unclear why Amazon did not move the whole code base to Android 11. FYI, Fire OS 7 is based on Android 9 (Android Pie).

As the current Android version is Andriod 13, apps that require Android 12 or higher generally cannot run on Fire OS 8. You must be aware of this limitation when sideloading Android apps to Fire tablets.… Read the rest

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