Amazon rewards loyal Kindle devotees by closing the book on old e-readers

It has been reported that Amazon will stop supporting Kindle devices released in 2012 or earlier from May 20, 2026. Owners can still read books already downloaded to those units, but after that date they will not be able to purchase, borrow, or download new titles on the affected hardware — and if you deregister or factory-reset the device, you allegedly won’t be able to re-register it at all.

What changes, exactly?

The cut affects a long tail of classics: first- and second-generation Kindles, Kindle DX and DX Graphite, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle 4, Kindle Touch, Kindle 5 and the first-generation Paperwhite. Amazon has framed the move as a technical inevitability, saying newer software can’t be supported on decade-old hardware and that its current devices offer “meaningful improvements in screen quality, performance, and accessibility.” It has been reported that Amazon will attempt to “minimize disruption” by offering a promotional code worth 20 percent off selected new Kindles plus an eBook credit applied after purchase.

Customers bristle

Not everyone’s buying that explanation. Longtime users who feel their loyalty is being repaid with obsolescence have told The Register the decision “leaves a bad taste” and called it “a business choice, not a law of nature.” Some customers allege the move is deliberately wasteful — consigning perfectly usable devices to recycling or landfill — and point out Amazon knows exactly how many legacy owners exist. Is this a gentle nudge toward an upgrade cycle, or plain old planned obsolescence? Reputation takes a hit either way.

The awkward offer

A 20 percent discount and an eBook credit is the olive branch. For some, that’s welcome; for others, it’s a coupon for something they never wanted to buy in the first place. Will the deal soothe frustrated readers — or kindle a longer burn of distrust? Only time (and a few new-screen selfies) will tell.

Sources: The Register