TCL now offers Smart TVs based on three different platforms; Roku OS, Android TV, and Fire TV. The company's first Fire TVs will be available in parts of Europe.
The TCL Fire TVs (CF6 series) are based on VA LCD panels and will be available in 50 and 55 inches in Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom at launch. They feature 4K resolution, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and have a metallic design.
The new strategic agreement between Amazon and TCL is noteworthy because TCL is normally associated with Roku TVs, mainly in America, and Android TV (or Google TV), mainly in Europe.
It is also noteworthy for another reason. In the past, Google effectively blocked its partners – TV makers – from using competing Android-based operating systems. Fire TV is based on Android, specifically AOSP (Android Open Source Project). This contract provision was challenged legally (via TechCrunch) which likely explains why we are now seeing TCL in addition to both Hisense and Xiaomi add Fire TVs to their line-ups.
- "Our Fire TV built-in portfolio continues to grow worldwide and we are excited to expand it even further by working with TCL," said Eric Saarnio, VP of Amazon Devices International. "Together with TCL, we are able to deliver an even more diverse lineup of high-quality, innovative smart TVs that combine Fire TV’s best-in-class entertainment experiences with TCL's world-class Smart TV."
TCL Fire TV (CF6). Photo: Amazon
With Fire TV, users have access to popular streaming services such as Prime Video, Disney+, HBO, and Netflix. The TVs also support Amazon Alexa voice commands. The bundled remote control has a built-in microphone plus four sponsored buttons.
The TCL Fire TVs (CF6) are available now from amazon.de, amazon.co.uk and other local amazon websites, starting at €400 / £330.
