Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon has informed users it will soon cease providing updates for earlier Kindle models, a decision that has triggered significant frustration among some customers. In a communication from the tech company, affected users were acknowledged as “longtime Kindle customers,” but they were also advised that devices launched in or before 2012 will no longer get updates starting 20 May 2026. This change means owners of older Kindles, such as the Kindle Touch and select Kindle Fire tablets, will lose access to new e-books and content. Despite Amazon’s claim of years of support for these models, users argue the decision renders up to two million devices obsolete.
User reactions to the change
Many customers have expressed disappointment, with some highlighting the emotional impact of the announcement. One user, identified as X on social media, shared their experience: “I have a Kindle Touch from 2013, it works great, and I bought a book on it just months ago—now it’s obsolete.” Another described the device as “probably one of the most low-tech gadgets ever made” and questioned why Amazon is discontinuing support. “A Kindle is a text device! There’s no need for updates,” they added.
Amazon’s reasoning for the decision
In a statement, an Amazon representative explained the move: “Effective May 20, 2026, customers using Kindle and Kindle Fire models released in 2012 or earlier will no longer be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content from the Kindle Store.” The spokesperson emphasized that these devices have been supported for at least 14 years, with some models having received care for as long as 18 years. However, they noted that technology has evolved significantly, and the devices will no longer be compatible with the latest features.
Impact on existing users
Users will still be able to access e-books they’ve already downloaded, and their accounts and Kindle Library will remain functional on Amazon’s mobile and desktop apps. The company also warned that a factory reset on affected devices would render them unusable. Kay Aaronricks, 46, told the BBC she was surprised by the announcement, expressing concern over the potential loss of full use of her 14-year-old Kindle. “It shows how much that Kindle is part of my life,” she said. “It lets me carry all my books with me while working and traveling.” She added that while she loves physical books, the Kindle offers greater convenience.
Environmental and practical concerns
Kay also raised worries about ads on newer, discounted Kindle models. “It’s about disconnecting from advertising, social media, and the other distractions we face daily,” she explained. Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the Restart Project, criticized Amazon’s approach. “Manufacturers often promise better performance with new devices, but ending support for older ones has been seen before,” he said. “This isn’t a strong justification for making millions of still-functional devices obsolete.” Vallauri noted that the shift could lead to over 624 tons of e-waste, as estimates suggest 2 million devices may become unusable.
Tech analyst Paolo Pescatore acknowledged the decision as “understandable from a security and support standpoint,” but warned that older devices losing compatibility with newer services might transform them into “far more limited offline tools.” He noted that the ageing hardware can no longer handle modern, data-intensive features, making the change inevitable.
Additional reporting by James Kelly. Sign up for the BBC’s Tech Decoded newsletter to stay updated on global tech trends. Outside the UK? Subscribe here.