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 cease support for older Kindle models, sparking widespread frustration among users. In a series of communications, the tech giant acknowledged the loyalty of longtime customers but informed them that devices manufactured in or before 2012 will no longer receive updates starting May 20, 2026. This change means users of these older models will lose access to newly released content, including books and other digital media, through the Kindle Store.
Amazon emphasized that these models have been supported for over a decade, with some receiving maintenance for as long as 18 years. To assist users, discounts were made available for transitioning to newer models. However, some customers have criticized the decision, arguing it could make up to two million devices “obsolete” and disrupt their daily reading habits.
Industry Perspectives
Tech analyst Paolo Pescatore noted that while the decision may inconvenience some users, it’s a logical step from a security standpoint. However, he highlighted that these devices were designed for a different era and may struggle with modern, resource-intensive services and features. “Ageing hardware can also pose problems,” he told the BBC, adding that the shift could transform a once seamless device into a more limited offline tool.
Ugo Vallauri of the Restart Project criticized the practice, arguing that ceasing support for still-functional devices isn’t a strong enough reason to render millions obsolete. “This could amount to over 624 tons of e-waste annually,” he said, citing estimates that highlight the environmental impact of discarding devices that still operate effectively.
Customer Reactions
“I have a Kindle Touch that I’ve had since 2013, it works great, I bought a book on it a few months ago, and suddenly it’s obsolete,” one user wrote in a post tagging Amazon.
Another user expressed disbelief, calling the Kindle “one of the most low-tech devices ever created” and questioning the rationale behind discontinuing support for such a basic tool. “A Kindle is a text device! There is no need for updates,” they added.
Kay Aaronicks, 46, shared her surprise at the announcement, noting the emotional weight of possibly losing full functionality of her 14-year-old Kindle. “It does show how much of a part that Kindle plays in my life,” she said, explaining how it has allowed her to “take all of my books with me” while working and traveling. She also raised concerns about ads on discounted newer models, which might alter the reading experience by introducing digital distractions.
Users will still be able to read e-books they have already downloaded, and their accounts and Kindle Library will remain accessible via the mobile and desktop app. Amazon also warned that performing a factory reset on affected devices could render them unusable.
Additional reporting by James Kelly. Sign up for our Tech Decoded newsletter to follow the world’s top tech stories and trends. Outside the UK? Sign up here.
Affected Models
- Kindle Touch
- Kindle Fire tablets
- Other devices released in or before 2012
