If you have an older Kindle e-reader you need to update your software now

Anyone using one of the older Kindle e-readers produced between around 2007 and 2012 will need to make sure they download a new software update by March 22 to keep their device working properly.

Amazon warns that devices that require the update include:

  • Kindle 1st Generation (2007) — software version needed is 1.2.1 — update via wireless (2G/3G)
  • Kindle 2nd Generation (2009) — 2.5.8 — use wireless
  • Kindle DX 2nd Generation (2009) — 2.5.8 — use wireless
  • Kindle Keyboard 3rd Generation (2010) — 3.4.2 or higher — use wi-fi
  • Kindle 4th Generation (2011) — 4.1.3 or higher — use wi-fi
  • Kindle 5th Generation (2012) — 4.1.3 or higher — use wi-fi
  • Kindle Touch 4th Generation (2011) — 5.3.7.3 or higher — use wi-fi
  • Kindle Paperwhite 5th Generation (2012) — 5.6.1.1 or higher — use wi-fi

For Kindle 2nd Gen (2009), Amazon also notes that even if your device is running version 2.5.8, if you’ve not connected to wireless, which is what Amazon calls 2G/3G, since October 5, 2015, then you should connect again now.

For the Kindle Keyboard 3rd Gen (2010), Touch 4th Gen (2011) and Paperwhite 5th Gen (2012), Amazon says even if your device has built-in 3G, you’ll need to connect to wi-fi to get the latest software update.

The software updates are needed, according to Amazon, so users can continue to access the Cloud and download ebooks.

You can get more details on the update and how to find out what software version your device is running at Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk.