Amazon is discontinuing support for older Kindle models released in 2012 or earlier, limiting access to new book purchases, downloads, and borrowing. The move has sparked criticism from users who feel their devices are still functional.
Amazon is discontinuing support for older Kindle models, sparking frustration among users who feel their devices still function perfectly well. The company announced via email on April 7th that it will cease supporting certain Kindle models as of May 20, 2026. This decision primarily impacts Kindle models released in 2012 or earlier. While existing downloaded books will remain accessible, owners of these older devices will lose the ability to purchase, borrow, or download new books.
Additionally, the 'Send to Kindle' feature, commonly used with apps like Libby for library e-book borrowing, will no longer function. Furthermore, users will be unable to re-register or use their Kindle if they de-register or factory reset it after the May 20th deadline. Amazon has stated that users who purchase a new Kindle will still have access to their existing library from their older device, offering a transition path for affected customers. The company explained its rationale, citing the significant advancements in technology over the past decade and a half. Amazon emphasized that these older devices have been supported for a considerable period, some for as long as 18 years, and that its focus is now on supporting newer technologies. In a statement, Amazon said they are notifying those still actively using the affected devices and offering promotional deals to facilitate the switch to newer models. They also clarified that users’ accounts and Kindle libraries remain fully accessible through the free Kindle app and Kindle for Web. The implications of this decision are substantial for Kindle users who have invested in older models, especially those who appreciate the design and functionality of their devices. The announcement has triggered significant backlash from users who have taken to social media to express their disappointment and frustration. Many users shared their experiences with older Kindle models, citing their continued functionality and their preference for the older designs, and expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived obsolescence of devices that are still fully functional. Some users specifically mentioned a fondness for the non-touchscreen models with physical page-turning buttons, a feature often absent in newer generations of Kindles. The forced obsolescence of the devices, which have long lifespans, is at the heart of the criticism. The discontinuation of features such as borrowing books from libraries and downloading new content creates an inconvenience and, for some users, a substantial financial loss, given the initial investment in the device. The inability to re-register or use the device following a factory reset further adds to the perceived limitations. The response demonstrates a desire from customers for longer product lifecycles and underscores the importance of a brand’s commitment to its customers
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