Kindle Users Outraged as Amazon Ends Support for Older Models
IGN • • technology
Key Points:
- Amazon will disable the ability to buy, borrow, or download new books on Kindle devices released in 2012 and earlier starting May 20, effectively downgrading their functionality.
- Affected models include Kindle 1st and 2nd Generation, Kindle DX, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle Touch, Kindle 4 and 5, and Kindle Paperwhite 1st Generation, which will become unusable for new users after factory reset.
- Existing book libraries will remain accessible on these devices if the account remains registered, but registering a new account will be impossible, rendering the device unusable for future users.
- Amazon is encouraging owners to upgrade by offering 20% off select new Kindle models and an eBook credit, though no specific reason was given for making older models obsolete beyond improvements in newer devices.
- The decision has sparked backlash from longtime users who see no need for updates on a simple text device, with concerns that Amazon aims to push readers toward newer, ad-supported Kindles; the change affects about 3% of Kindle users, estimated at 2 million devices.
