Android 4.4 KitKat Ported to Kindle Fire 2011

As expected, Android developers work very hard in order to improve the resource management along with the latest firmware unveiled, the Android 4.4 KitKat. What is different with the new version of the operating system is the fact that it can be successfully ported to much older devices. Such is the case of the first generation of Amazon Kindle Fire, released back in 2011. Due to the fact that it can be ported to low-end devices, Android 4.4 will definitely have a high adoption rate among all Android devices owners.

This particular tablet belongs to the low-end device spectrum. Amazon Kindle Fire runs a 1 GHz dual-core processor with 512 MP of RAM and 8 GB of internal storage. In the same time, it displays a 7-inch IPS screen, which supports only a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. These features make the tablet a suitable candidate to receive the latest Android update, mostly because the firmware is compatible to older devices.

At this point, Amazon started to ship numerous units of the next generation Kindle Fire tablets and people stuck with the older model might feel left aside. This is not the case. Originally shipped with Amazon’s Fire OS, the old 7-inch tablet has been recently hacked, and it has received an unofficial Android 4.4. KitKat ROM on it. The version has been customized in order to be suitable for the Amazon’s tablet.

Considering the age of the device itself and the complexity of a modern Android firmware, it seems that the overall performance on the Kindle Fire is quite pleasing. However, as expected, there are various aspects that betray its age.

Apparently, there seems to be some graphical glitches, and a non-working stock browser. However, it is possible that these few issues to be solved in time if the tablet will permit it. After all, users will have the possibility to install alternative browsers such as Firefox or Dolphin. In what concerns the hardware-accelerated video playback, users will be able to stream videos without any problems whatsoever.

Android 4.4 port on Kindle Fire is a work in progress and many things still need to be revised. However, considering the fact that both Amazon and Google do not support the software, the hackers’ job seems to be quite outstanding for a semi-functional build of KitKat on an old device.

For those who are interested, the easiest way to add the unofficial KitKat version on the original Kindle Fire is to use the Kindle Fire Utility in order to install a custom recovery such as TWRP 2.6.3.1, which loads the operating system. Those who use TWRP should make sure that they have the latest version. It is also advised to make a backup of your device before installing the Android 4.4. ROM.