Amazon has announced that it will launch a dedicated games and entertainment device this year that will be priced below $300.
The new Amazon Android console is being created in conjunction with subsidiary Lab 126, designers of Amazon’s Kindle devices.
The device that is being shown to publishers currently is said to be roughly the same size as the PSone redesign, grey in color, oblong in shape and with sharp edges. However, it is believed that the pre-production device will likely have a full makeover before any official release.
As well as competition for the big three console makers, Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo, the Amazon system will take on microconsoles like the Ouya or Gamestick that have so far failed to capture an audience outside of hobbyist markets.
The main difference for Amazon is that it already enjoys an active customer base of 200+ million people along with their payment details, 10 million of which are said to subscribe to the $79-a-month Prime Service.
The best games for the Amazon console will probably be similar to those currently taking tablet devices by storm, where companies such as Rovio, Supercell, King and Kabam are forging ahead in the free-to-play business with a combination of accessible gameplay and high marketing spend.
Amazon is in the process of recruiting for its game development team with numerous positions that require extensive knowledge in triple-A games across production, art, tech and design roles.
In accordance with TechCrunch, the Amazon console will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors.
What are your thoughts? Are you looking forward to the new Amazon Android console? Let us know your thoughts below.
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