.svg)
Millions of e-reader users are facing a major change as Amazon prepares to discontinue software support for several older Kindle models. Beginning May 20, 2026, devices released in 2012 or earlier will lose key functionality, impacting up to two million users worldwide.
According to the announcement, while these older devices will still allow users to read previously downloaded e-books, they will no longer be able to connect to the Kindle Store. This means users won’t be able to browse, purchase, or download new titles directly from their devices. Instead, they will need to manually transfer books using a USB connection.
The move affects a wide range of early Kindle models, including the original Kindle (2007), Kindle DX series, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle 4 and 5, Kindle Touch, the first-generation Kindle Paperwhite, and early Kindle Fire tablets.
Amazon stated that these devices have already received long-term support, ranging from 14 to 18 years. The company explained that advances in technology have made it increasingly difficult to continue maintaining older hardware and software systems. To ease the transition, Amazon has offered discounts to active users looking to upgrade to newer Kindle devices.
However, the decision has sparked criticism among some users. Many have expressed frustration online, arguing that their devices still function well and questioning the need for ongoing updates for what they describe as simple reading tools.
Despite the backlash, Amazon maintains that the change is necessary as it focuses on improving performance, security, and features for newer generations of Kindle devices.
