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Getting Started with Fire OS Device Management
Fire OS is an operating system built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), powering Amazon’s ecosystem of devices including Fire tablets and phones. While it shares a core with Android, Fire OS functions differently; specifically lacking Google Mobile Services (GMS), which requires a specialized approach to management.
Hexnode UEM provides a unified console to handle Fire OS mobile device management, enabling administrators to enroll, secure, and monitor Amazon devices alongside standard Android and iOS fleets.
Fire TV Sticks are not supported for management within Hexnode UEM.
1. Enrollment and Provisioning
The first step to start Fire OS mobile device management is bringing the devices under corporate control.
Enrollment Methods
Since Fire OS does not support GMS-based enrollment (like Android Enterprise or Zero-Touch), Hexnode offers specific alternative methods:
- Standard Enrollment: Enroll via the Hexnode app downloaded from the Amazon Appstore.
- Bulk Enrollment: Use CSV import for pre-approved enrollment of multiple devices.
2. Security and Restrictions
Fire OS devices are often used as dedicated purpose tools (e.g., in logistics or education). Hexnode allows admins to enforce strict boundaries.
Configure Restrictions
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Basic Restrictions: Disable specific hardware functions (cameras, microphones) or block access to system settings to prevent users from altering device configurations.
Network Security
Secure the communication channels on your Fire tablets:
- Connectivity: Remotely configure Wi-Fi, VPN, and APN settings.
- Accounts: Streamline authentication by pushing Email and Exchange ActiveSync configurations directly to the device.
3. Application and Content Management
Because Fire OS does not use the Google Play Store, app management relies on alternative distribution methods.
App Management
- Distribution: Deploy enterprise apps (APK files) or apps from the Amazon Appstore.
- Maintenance: Update or remove applications remotely to ensure the workforce has the correct toolset.
Content Management
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File Distribution: Push corporate documents (PDFs, videos, manuals) directly to the device storage using Hexnode’s File Management system.
4. Kiosk Mode and Dedicated Use
Transform Fire OS tablets into purpose-built kiosks for retail, hospitality, or field work.
| Kiosk Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Single App Kiosk | Locks the device to one specific application. Ideal for public-facing terminals. |
| Multi-App Kiosk | Allows access to a restricted list of approved apps. Best for employee task devices. |
| Web Kiosk | Restricts the browser to specific allowlisted URLs. |
Note: Hexnode also supports Digital Signage and Kiosk Screensavers on Fire OS, allowing devices to display loops of images or videos when idle.
5. Monitoring and Control
Maintain visibility over your fleet without physical access.
Remote View and Control
- Remote View: Admins can see the device screen in real-time from the Hexnode console to guide users through issues.
- Remote Control: Interactively control the device interface (mouse/keyboard injection) to fix problems directly.
Network Data Management
- Usage Monitoring: Track mobile data consumption to prevent overage charges.
- Alerts & Limits: Set caps on data usage and receive notifications if a device exceeds its allocated bandwidth.
Troubleshooting Fire OS Management
Common issues encountered during Fire OS mobile device management and their solutions.
Issue: Location tracking is inaccurate.
Cause: Fire OS location services are often battery-optimized.
Solution: Ensure the device’s location setting is set to “High Accuracy” locally on the device, and that the Hexnode app has location permissions granted at the system level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use Android Enterprise (Device Owner) modes on Fire tablets?
A: No. Android Enterprise relies on Google Mobile Services (GMS), which is absent on Fire OS. You must use the specific Fire OS enrollment methods provided by Hexnode.
Q: Does Hexnode support Amazon Fire TV Sticks?
A: No. As noted in the guide, Fire TV Sticks are currently not supported for management.
