Amazon has officially announced that it will stop supporting older Kindle e-readers and Kindle Fire devices, beginning May 20, 2026. This change affects devices released in 2012 and earlier, which will no longer have access to the Kindle Store, significantly impacting how users interact with their older devices.
According to an Amazon spokesperson, Jackie Burke, users of affected devices will not be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content via the Kindle Store after the deadline. However, individuals will still be able to read books that they have already downloaded onto their devices and will retain access to their Amazon accounts and Kindle purchases through the Kindle mobile app, Kindle for Web, and newer devices.
Importantly, if users choose to deregister or perform a factory reset on their older Kindle or Kindle Fire devices after the May 20 deadline, they will not be able to re-register these devices. This means that any factory reset will effectively render the device unusable for accessing the Kindle Store.
Affected Devices
The list of devices that will be impacted by this decision includes a range of models dating back to the original Kindle, which was launched in 2007. Below is a comprehensive list of the devices affected:
- Kindle 1st Generation (2007)
- Kindle DX and DX Graphite (2009 and 2010)
- Kindle Keyboard (2010)
- Kindle 4 (2011)
- Kindle Touch (2011)
- Kindle 5 (2012)
- Kindle Paperwhite 1st Generation (2012)
- Kindle Fire 1st Gen (2011)
- Kindle Fire 2nd Gen (2012)
- Kindle Fire HD 7 (2012)
- Kindle Fire HD 8.9 (2012)
Amazon plans to notify affected users via email in advance of the May 20 deadline. This notification will provide detailed information on what their devices will be capable of post-deadline. While pre-2012 Kindle Fire devices will face the same restrictions concerning book purchases, other apps and Amazon services will continue to function as normal.
Upgrade Incentives
As a gesture to long-time users looking to upgrade to newer Kindle hardware, Amazon will provide a 20% discount on new Kindle devices for those affected by this change. Additionally, users will receive a $20 ebook credit, which will be credited to their accounts after upgrading. This offer is valid until June 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT. Users can also rest assured that their older purchases will be accessible on new devices, provided they log in with the same Amazon account they have been using.
This move by Amazon marks a significant milestone as it phases out support for older Kindle devices. In 2016, the company had previously required users to update their device software to maintain access to the Kindle Store; however, after nearly a decade, it appears that the time has come for these older models to be retired.
For many users who have relied on their Kindle devices for years, this transition may feel abrupt. Nonetheless, the transition to newer models brings with it improved technology and features that enhance the reading experience, aligning with Amazon’s commitment to providing up-to-date services and support.
As the deadline approaches, it will be crucial for users of affected devices to consider their options for upgrading to ensure continued access to new content and features that Amazon offers through its more recent devices.
Source: The Verge News