Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry
Amazon has informed customers that support for older Kindle models will be discontinued soon, sparking frustration among long-time users. The company announced that devices released during or before 2012 will no longer receive updates starting 20 May 2026. This change affects early Kindle models like the Touch and certain Kindle Fire tablets, leaving them unable to access new content from the Kindle Store.
User backlash over obsolescence
Many customers have expressed disappointment, with some criticizing the decision for rendering up to two million devices outdated. One user on X shared: “I’ve had my Kindle Touch since 2013, it works great, and suddenly it’s obsolete.” Another noted: “A Kindle is a text device! There’s no need for updates.” The move has drawn attention to the lifespan of these gadgets, as some users rely on them for daily reading.
“It does show how much of a part that Kindle plays in my life,” said Kay Aaronicks, 46, after learning of the decision. “I love paper books like anyone does, but the Kindle is more practical.” She also highlighted concerns about advertisements on newer, discounted models, which might disrupt the reading experience. “It’s about taking yourself away from reality and disconnecting from advertising, marketing, social media, all those other things we’re surrounded with in life,” she added.
Amazon’s rationale for the change
In a statement, an Amazon representative explained: “Starting May 20, 2026, customers using Kindle and Kindle Fire devices released in 2012 and earlier will no longer be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content via the Kindle Store. These models have been supported for at least 14 years—some as long as 18 years—but technology has advanced significantly, making continued support impractical.” The company emphasized that existing e-books will remain accessible, and accounts will still function on its apps.
Industry perspective on the decision
Tech analyst Paolo Pescatore acknowledged the move as “understandable from a security and support standpoint,” noting that older hardware struggles to handle modern services. “These devices were built for a different era and can’t keep up with data-heavy features,” he said. However, he warned that the loss of connectivity to newer platforms could transform once-reliable tools into limited offline devices.
Environmental and consumer concerns
Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the Restart Project, highlighted the broader implications of the shift. “Manufacturers often tout better performance with newer devices while phasing out older ones, but this isn’t a strong reason for soft-bricking millions still in use,” he said. Vallauri also pointed out that the change could lead to 624 tons of e-waste, as 3% of current users—estimated at two million devices—face obsolescence. He stressed the need for sustainable alternatives to device replacement.
Additional reporting by James Kelly. Outside the UK? Sign up here for the Tech Decoded newsletter to follow global tech trends and stories.
