Amazon Ends Tech Support For Older Kindles Starting May 20, 2026

Amazon is ending tech support for older Kindle models starting May 20, 2026, including the Kindle 1st Generation, Kindle 2nd Generation, Kindle DX, Kindle DX Graphite, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle 4, Kindle 5, Kindle Touch, Kindle Paperwhite 1st Generation, and Kindle Fire 1st Generation, Kindle Fire 2nd Generation, Kindle Fire HD 7, and Kindle Fire HD 8.9.

“Amazon just announced it's dropping tech support for several older Kindle models, including the original Kindle, DX, Keyboard, Touch, Paperwhite first-generation, and some early Fire tablets, starting May 20, 2026”

NewsBytes

After that date, users will only be able to use their devices to read content that’s already downloaded, according to TechCrunch’s account of the change.

Pluang

NewsBytes similarly says that after May 20, 2026, you’ll only be able to read books you’ve already downloaded on affected models.

The same TechCrunch report frames the shift as a move that pushes owners toward jailbreaking by bypassing Amazon’s software restrictions on Kindle devices.

TechCrunch says jailbreaking refers to bypassing the software restrictions imposed by Amazon on Kindle devices, and it allows users to install custom fonts, new screensavers, alternative reading apps, and third-party tools.

The report also notes that jailbreaking might violate Amazon’s terms of service, even while it says that in many jurisdictions jailbreaking isn’t considered a criminal offense for personal use.

TechCrunch

Zamin.uz adds that the jailbreaking process involves removing software restrictions set by Amazon, which can let users install custom fonts, new screensavers, and third-party applications that expand Kindle functionality.

Zamin.uz also warns that jailbreaking may violate Amazon’s terms of service and that the process is technically complex, with a possibility of bricking the device if done incorrectly.

TechCrunch says a safer alternative is to sideload books onto a Kindle using a USB cable and a computer without modifying the system software.

“Many people are jailbreaking their Kindles following the news that Amazon is ending technical support for older models”

TechCrunch

For jailbroken devices, TechCrunch describes steps that include disabling Wi-Fi or using airplane mode to prevent Amazon from updating the Kindle and closing jailbreak loopholes.

TechCrunch also says users can install KOReader, described as an open-source e-book reader for jailbroken Kindles that offers support for multiple file types including EPUB, enhanced PDF handling, and a built-in file browser.

NewsBytes points to other upgrade options such as Boox Palma and Vivlio, while TechCrunch also mentions that there are other similar devices available, including the Boox Palma, Vivlio e-reader, and an Xteink X3 that can attach to the back of a phone.