Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry

Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry

Amazon has informed Kindle owners that it will discontinue support for older models. This decision has sparked anger among some users. Devices launched in or before 2012 will no longer receive updates starting May 20, 2026. The change means owners of these older devices, including early models like the Kindle Touch and certain Kindle Fire tablets, will lose access to new e-book downloads.

Affected devices and timeline

The affected Kindle models include those released during or prior to 2012. Amazon stated that these devices have been supported for years, with active users offered discounts to “transition to newer models.” However, some users argue this move will render up to two million devices obsolete.

User reactions and concerns

Many users have voiced frustration over the decision. One user shared on X: “I’ve had my Kindle Touch since 2013, it works great, and now it’s obsolete.” Another criticized the device as “one of the most low-tech ever made,” questioning why updates are being cut. “A Kindle is a text device! There’s no need for updates,” they added.

“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 X user wrote in a post tagging Amazon.

“A Kindle is a text device! There is no need for updates.”

Amazon’s justification

In a statement, an Amazon representative said: “As of May 20, 2026, customers using Kindle and Kindle Fire devices from 2012 or earlier will no longer be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content from the Kindle Store.” The spokesperson noted that these models have received support for at least 14 years, with some over 18 years. “Technology has advanced significantly, so these devices will no longer be supported moving forward,” they explained.

Environmental impact and user concerns

Kay Aaronricks, 46, told the BBC she was surprised by the announcement and saddened by the potential loss of full Kindle functionality. “It shows how much that device is part of my life,” she said. She praised its utility for carrying books while working or traveling but worried about ads on newer, discounted models. “It’s about disconnecting from advertising and social media,” she added.

“It does show how much of a part that Kindle plays in my life,” she said, adding it had allowed her to “take all of my books with me” when working and traveling.

“I love paper books like anyone does, but the Kindle is more practical,” Kay added.

Industry perspectives

Tech analyst Paolo Pescatore noted that while the move may inconvenience some, it’s “understandable from a security and support standpoint.” “These devices were built for a different era and struggle with newer, data-intensive features,” he explained. However, he warned that losing connectivity to updated services could turn the Kindle into a limited offline tool.

Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the Restart Project, pointed out that this practice has occurred before. “Yet, that’s not a strong reason to make millions of functioning devices obsolete,” he said. He emphasized that the change could result in 2 million devices being discarded, potentially leading to over 624 tons of e-waste.

Additional reporting by James Kelly. Outside the UK? Sign up here.