Pros
- Supports WiFi 6 for faster, more reliable streaming (future-proof).
- 4K UHD resolution with HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos support.
- Improved performance with 2GB RAM and a 1.7GHz quad-core processor.
- Alexa voice remote included for hands-free control.
- Allows sideloading of Android apps not available in the Amazon App Store.
- Native VPN support for accessing region-locked content.
- Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and speakers.
- Regular software updates and security patches.
- Affordable price, often discounted.
Cons
- Only 8GB of internal storage, which fills up quickly with apps.
- Amazon-centric interface with prominent ads and Prime content.
- Limited availability of some popular streaming apps in Africa (e.g., DStv, ShowMax).
- External storage via USB OTG is slower than internal storage.
- Best features (4K, HDR) require a compatible TV.
- No Ethernet port (requires additional adapter for wired connection).
Transitioning to the 2023 Fire TV Stick 4K
Straight out of the box, you receive a power plug, a micro USB cable, an Alexa voice remote, triple A batteries, an HDMI extender, and, of course, the Firestick . I appreciate the convenience of powering the Firestick using one of your TV’s USB ports , eliminating the need for a wall socket. This considerate design sets it apart from alternatives like the Chromecast with Google TV, which requires a wall socket for power. Additionally, the included HDMI extender proves useful for TVs placed in challenging or inaccessible locations.
Presently, my D-Link 885L router supports WiFi 5, so I won’t fully harness the potential of WiFi 6 until I upgrade my router, a plan I have in the pipeline. Nevertheless, having WiFi 6 on my Firestick ensures that I’m future-proofed for upcoming technological advancements. It’s worth mentioning that the 4K Max version goes a step further by supporting WiFi 6E , providing an even more advanced wireless experience. If you’re seeking the pinnacle of wireless connectivity, investing an additional $10 for the 4K Max could be a worthwhile consideration.
Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen)Specs:
- Model: Fire TV Stick 4K(2nd Gen)
- Size : 99 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (only housing)
- Weight : 43.5 g
- Processor: Quad-core 1.7 GHz
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 8GB (internal)
- Resolution: 2160p, 1080p and 720p up to 60 fps
- HDR Formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, HDMI audio pass-through up to 5.1
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6 dual-band: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE
- Ports : HDMI 2.1 output with ARC input support, micro USB
- Voice Assistant: Alexa
The Upgraded Hardware of Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen)
Fire TV stick 4K 2nd Gen
The all-new Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen) brings notable improvements in memory and processing power. Equipped with 2GB of RAM , a substantial upgrade from the previous model’s 1.5GB, and powered by a 1.7GHz quad-core MediaTek MT8695 processor, users can expect at least a 20% boost i n performance compared to the earlier version. While the practical difference might be challenging to discern when comparing the Fire TV Stick 4K (2018) and Fire TV Stick 4K (2023), the enhancements become evident for users transitioning from lower models such as the Fire TV Stick (3rd gen) streaming player as I did. For instance, the Fire TV Stick (3rd gen) supports WiFi 5, in contrast to the WiFi 6 capability of the Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen), and offers a resolution of 1080p HD as opposed to the 4K resolution of the latter.
$49.99
The Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen) takes content streaming to new heights with its WiFi 6 capabilities and stunning 4K UHD resolution . Supporting all popular HDR standards , including Dolby Vision and HDR10+ , it promises a theater-like experience in the comfort of your home. To unlock the full potential of the Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen), it’s crucial that you connect it to a 4K UHD-capable Smart TV. For those with a 1080p HD TV, the complete range of video formats and benefits offered by the Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen) might not be fully realized. So keep that in mind.
Software and App Versatility
firetv stick 4k 2nd gen Alexa features
- Sideload Apps: Empowering users to effortlessly install Android Apps not available on the official Amazon App store . This proves especially handy when dealing with apps restricted to specific regions, such as the BBC iPlayer limited to the UK.
- Built-in Browser: The Fire TV Stick 4K includes the Silk browser, providing a full-fledged web browsing experience. This feature enables access to streaming services with web apps that might not have a dedicated Fire TV App. For example, even if the DStv app isn’t officially supported on Fire TV, it can still be accessed through the DStv web app.
- Voice-Enabled Remotes: Equipped with voice search functionality through Alexa , Amazon’s smart assistant. Unlike competing platforms like Roku, where only premium streaming devices come with a voice remote, virtually all Fire TV remotes support voice search.
- Native VPN Support: Streamlining VPN installation directly from the Fire TV App. This feature offers convenience and flexibility, allowing users to choose from various VPN providers such as Surfshark, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, IPVanish, and more. In contrast, competitors like Roku or Apple TV necessitate the use of a VPN WiFi router.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: With Bluetooth capabilities, Firestick users can easily connect to headphones or speakers. This feature sets Firestick apart, as Roku only supports this functionality through the app or premium remotes equipped with a headphone jack.
- Smart home integration: If you have Alexa-compatible smart home devices such as smart bulbs, smart plugs, smart home security cameras, doorbells, and thermostats, then you take advantage of FireTV Alexa marriage. You can for instance view a live stream of a video feed of blink security camera right on the TV screen.
- Live TV and FireTV Channels: Users can easily stream Live TV and watch things like News or TV shows in real-time as opposed to on-demand. This is all offered for Free. You also get FireTV channels such include TV channels and an assortment of streaming services for Free, but with occasional Ads.
Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen): An Entertainment Powerhouse
The Fire TV platform’s remarkable versatility seamlessly extends to the new Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen). This platform compatibility ensures support for a wide array of popular streaming services, including but not limited to Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Hulu, HBO Max, Pluto TV, Tubi, Crackle, Freeve, BBC iPlayer, MGM+ , and many more. Interestingly, each new Firestick purchase comes with a complimentary 6-month subscription to MGM+. So if you’re a fan of James Bond, then you’re in for a treat.
Limited streaming channels for African users
Our Top Picks for streaming devices
Google TV Streamer 4K – Fast Streaming Entertainment on Your TV with Voice Search Remote – Watch Movies, Shows, Live TV, and Netflix in 4K HDR – Smart Home Control – 32 GB of Storage – Porcelain
ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device with Voice Remote Control Google Assistant & High Speed HDMI Cable (100026240) Black
TiVo Stream 4K – Every Streaming App and Live TV on One Screen – 4K UHD, Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos Sound – Powered by Android TV – Plug-In Smart TV, One size
NVIDIA Shield Android TV | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player High Performance, Dolby Vision, Google Assistant Built-in, Works with Alexa (945-13430-2500-000)
NVIDIA Shield Android TV Pro | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player High Performance, Dolby Vision, 3GB RAM, 2X USB, Works with Alexa, Model:945-12897-2500-101
Roku Streaming Stick 4K – HDR & Dolby Vision Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote & Long-Range Wi-Fi – Free & Live TV
Roku Ultra – Ultimate Streaming Player – 4K Streaming Device for TV with HDR10+, Dolby Vision & Atmos – Bluetooth & Wi-Fi 6- Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro with Backlit Buttons – Free & Live TV
H96 Max M9 TV Box Android 14.0 RK3576 8GB RAM 128GB ROM WiFi6 1000M LAN BT5.4 USB3.0 Support AV1 VP9 4K 60fps H.265 HDR Box
Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen)storage limitations
firetv stick 4k 2nd gen
While the Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd gen) offers a compelling entertainment experience, it does have its limitations, notably in the storage department. With a modest 8GB of internal storage, users might find the capacity filling up rapidly as they install various apps. An option to mitigate this limitation is the possibility of expanding storage through external means, using an OTG cable and a USB flash drive . I wrote a whole tutorial on how to achieve this. However, it’s essential to be aware that the performance of apps or data stored externally may not match the speed of internal storage.
For users requiring more storage capacity, alternative Fire TV devices like the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd gen) or the Fire TV Cube(3rd gen) present viable solutions. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max doubles the internal storage to 16GB , offering a more capacious option, while the Fire TV Cube boasts a substantial 32GB of internal storage for those with even greater storage needs.
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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