Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon has notified users that it will soon discontinue updates for older Kindle models, a decision that has sparked frustration among some customers. In correspondence from the tech company, affected individuals were acknowledged as “loyal Kindle users” but informed that devices launched in or before 2012 will no longer receive support starting 20 May 2026. This change means owners of earlier models, such as the Kindle Touch and select Kindle Fire tablets, will lose access to new e-book purchases. While Amazon stated it has provided support to these models for years and extended discounts to ease the shift to newer versions, critics argue the move could render up to two million devices outdated.
One user shared their dismay on social media, expressing surprise at the sudden obsolescence of their Kindle Touch, acquired in 2013. “It works perfectly, and I bought a book on it just months ago, yet now it’s obsolete,” they wrote, tagging Amazon in their post. Another reader criticized the Kindle as “perhaps the simplest device ever created,” questioning the rationale for ending its support. “A Kindle is meant for reading, not for constant updates,” they remarked.
Amazon’s Statement
In a formal release, Amazon explained that devices from 2012 and earlier will no longer be supported as technology advances. “These models have been in use for at least 14 years—some for 18 years—but they will no longer be compatible with the latest features and services,” the spokesperson noted. The affected list includes several older Kindle variants, though users can still access previously downloaded e-books and maintain their library and account details through the mobile and desktop apps.
Amazon also highlighted that a factory reset on these devices would leave them unable to function properly. Kay Aaronicks, a 46-year-old user, told the BBC she was taken aback by the announcement, noting the emotional impact of possibly losing full use of her 14-year-old Kindle. “It’s more than a gadget—it’s part of my daily routine,” she said, emphasizing how the device helped her carry books while working and traveling. She also raised concerns about advertisements appearing on newer, discounted models, which she believes could disrupt the reading experience.
Industry Perspectives
Tech analyst Paolo Pescatore described the decision as “reasonable from a security standpoint,” acknowledging that older hardware may struggle with modern software demands. “These devices were built for a different time and can’t handle today’s resource-heavy applications,” he told the BBC. However, he warned that losing connectivity to newer services could transform a once-versatile tool into a limited offline device.
Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the Restart Project, voiced concerns about the environmental impact. “Manufacturers often promise better performance with new models, but ending support for existing ones unnecessarily can leave millions of still-working devices in limbo,” he said. According to his estimate, the change could lead to over 624 tons of e-waste, as 2 million devices might be discarded. The article was additionally reported by James Kelly. For global updates, sign up to the Tech Decoded newsletter here.
