Amazon has rolled out a new update to its Kindle Fire tablet today with the launch of update 6.2.1, which brings both good and bad to Kindle Fire users. On the good side, users will now be able to remove books, apps, or other content from the carousel of recently used items on the home screen, together with a password facility to stop WiFi access.
New Features and Improvements
The update also brings smoother scrolling and the ability to remove the Facebook link/mobile app that comes pre-loaded on the device. This is a significant improvement for users who prefer a more customized and streamlined experience. The smoother scrolling feature enhances the overall user experience by making navigation through the device more fluid and responsive. Additionally, the ability to remove the Facebook app is a welcome change for those who do not use the social media platform and prefer to free up space for other applications.
Another noteworthy addition is the password protection for WiFi access. This feature is particularly useful for parents who want to control their children’s internet usage or for anyone who wants to ensure that their device remains secure when connected to public WiFi networks. By adding this layer of security, Amazon is addressing a common concern among users about unauthorized access to their devices.
Drawbacks and Concerns
However, the bad news is that it also removes root privileges and may cause other problems for users that have rooted their tablets. Rooting a device allows users to gain full control over the operating system, enabling them to customize the device beyond the manufacturer’s limitations. For tech-savvy users who have rooted their Kindle Fire tablets, this update could be seen as a step backward. The removal of root privileges means that these users will lose access to certain customizations and functionalities that they have grown accustomed to.
Moreover, the update may introduce compatibility issues with apps and settings that were previously configured on rooted devices. Users who rely on specific root-only applications may find that these apps no longer function correctly, leading to frustration and the need to seek alternative solutions.
The new Kindle Fire update will be rolling out automatically to Kindle Fire users over the next couple of days, but might also become available as a manual download from the page. For those who prefer to have control over when and how updates are installed, the option to manually download the update is a convenient alternative. This allows users to prepare for the changes and ensure that their data is backed up before proceeding with the installation.
In conclusion, while the Kindle Fire 6.2.1 update brings several positive changes, such as improved scrolling, the ability to remove pre-loaded apps, and enhanced security features, it also presents challenges for users who have rooted their devices. As with any software update, it is essential for users to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before proceeding. For those who value customization and root access, it may be worth considering the implications of the update and exploring potential workarounds to maintain their preferred level of control over their device.
Source: Liliputing : xda-developers : Amazon forum
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