When Amazon first introduced the Kindle back in 2007, the world of reading changed forever. We're a few years on from that now, and we've got many new Kindle models. But some older Kindles are set to lose internet access later this year.
Some Older Kindle Models Set to Lose Internet Access
As first reported by The Verge, Amazon has sent some Kindle owners in the US an email, telling them their device is going to lose internet access soon. In the email, Amazon explains that the devices will lose internet access later in December this year.
Amazon only sent the email to the owners of some pretty old Kindle models–we're talking the original models. Only devices that use 3G instead of Wi-Fi will lose internet access.
The email details that the shift is happening when mobile networks remove 2G and 3G networks, and switch completely to 4G and 5G. It's also worth noting that this change only applies to US cellular networks, and any Kindles in the US.
Which Kindle Devices Will Lose Internet Access?
Only a few Kindle devices are going to be affected by this change. First and second generation Kindles, and the Kindle DX will all lose internet connection completely, as they rely on a 3G connection.
The Kindle Keyboard (3rd Gen), Kindle Touch (4th Gen), Kindle Paperwhite (5th, 6th, and 7th Gen), Kindle Voyage (7th Gen), and Kindle Oasis (8th Gen) will also lose cellular access, but will still be able to connect to Wi-Fi.
While Amazon doesn't go on to list them, any Kindle models newer than those will not be affected, as they only require a Wi-Fi connection.
In the email, Amazon explained that you'll still be able to access any existing content on your device. Bear in mind, you'll still be able to transfer books to your Kindle if you connect it to your computer.
Fortunately, Amazon sent out a $50 off discount code in the email. Users can use the discount on a new Kindle Paperwhite or Oasis, and will also get $15 in eBook credits.
The End of the Road for Older Kindles
Even though Amazon explains you'll still be able to access the content already on an affected Kindle, the device is losing most of its functionality.
Being able to regularly access new books is part of what makes the Kindle such a useful device. And once it can't do that, it's no more useful than an ordinary book.