Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon has announced that it will discontinue support for older Kindle models, a decision that has sparked frustration among some users. In a recent communication, affected customers were acknowledged as “longtime Kindle users” but informed that devices released in or before 2012 will no longer receive updates starting 20 May 2026. This change means owners of pre-2012 Kindles, including early models like the Kindle Touch and select Kindle Fire tablets, will lose the ability to download new e-books. While Amazon emphasized its years of support for these devices and offered discounts to ease the transition, critics argue the move could render up to two million units obsolete.
User Reactions
Some customers expressed disappointment, highlighting the impact on their devices. “I have a Kindle Touch that I’ve had since 2013, it works great, and suddenly it’s obsolete,” one user shared in a post. Others questioned the necessity of updates, with one describing the Kindle as “probably one of the most low-tech devices ever made.” They raised concerns about why Amazon would stop supporting it, noting that “a Kindle is a text device! There is no need for updates.”
“It’s about taking yourself away from reality and disconnecting from advertising, marketing, social media, all those other things we’re surrounded with in life,” said Kay Aaronricks, 46, who was surprised by the announcement. She added, “I love paper books like anyone does, but the Kindle is more practical.” Aaronricks also worried about ads on newer, discounted models, fearing they might alter the reading experience.
Amazon’s Justification
In a statement, an Amazon representative explained the decision: “Starting May 20, 2026, customers using Kindle and Kindle Fire devices released in 2012 and earlier will no longer be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content via the Kindle Store.” The spokesperson noted that these models have been supported for at least 14 years, with some receiving care for up to 18 years. They cited technological advancements as the reason for the shift, stating that “ageing hardware” can no longer handle modern services and features.
Environmental Concerns
Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the Restart Project, criticized the decision, saying it aligns with a common practice in the tech industry. “However, that’s hardly a good reason for soft-bricking millions of still functioning devices,” he remarked. Vallauri pointed out that the change, while affecting only 3% of current users, could result in 2 million devices becoming obsolete. This, he warned, “could amount to over 624 tons of e-waste” based on some estimates.
Amazon clarified that users will still be able to access e-books already downloaded and maintain their accounts and libraries through mobile and desktop apps. However, the company warned that performing a factory reset on affected devices could render them unusable. Additional reporting by James Kelly. Outside the UK? Sign up here for our Tech Decoded newsletter to follow the world’s top tech stories and trends.
