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Is it Time to Replace an Older Kindle eReader?
August 8, 2021 *
Amazon introduced the world to its Kindle eReaders over a dozen years ago. Amazon’s free cellular connectivity offered a huge selling point to individuals without access to cellular connectivity on the go. However, Amazon recently announced that the early models would lose 2G and 3G service by the end of the year.
When Will Amazon Cease Connectivity for 2G and 3G Kindles?
Typical consumers in the early 2000s only had wireless connections to 2G and 3G networks through their phones. Of course, in the first decade of the 20th Century, people mostly used their phones as phones and not as the versatile devices that almost everybody carries today. Cell phones also did not support all of the apps they do now, so readers truly needed an eReader to read books.
Surprisingly, plenty of people still use those early Kindle eReaders. Maybe that’s a testament to their durability. No matter how well preserved the Kindle, Amazon recently emailed past purchasers that they would lose 2G and 3G service by December. Additionally, Amazon provided a handy page to help identify Kindle models to ensure consumers know which model they are using.
Why Did Amazon Cut 2G and 3G for Older Kindles?
More recent Kindles rely mostly upon the customer’s wireless WiFi connectivity. Kindles also offer 4G for downloads outside the range of WiFi. According to CNET, canceling 2G and 3G will not impact WiFi or 4G at all.
Apparently, Amazon had little control over this change. The company told customers that most of their partner Mobile Network Operators plan to cease 2G and 3G service, so they have no way to offer it in the future.
Will Amazon Help Kindle Customers Stay Connected?
Some folks probably have a lot of books, magazines, and other material downloaded to their old Kindle. They don’t need to worry about losing their investment. For example:
- Kindle owners can still use their devices to read previously downloaded content.
- They can also transfer content with a USB cable.
Amazon also offered impacted customers a discount to encourage them to replace their Kindle eReader and buy a new Kindle Paperwhite or Oasis. Anybody who’s got a decade-old Kindle stashed in a drawer can check their email for a chance to save money on a new one.
Which New Kindle Should People Replace Their Old One With?
Just recently, Upsie compared the Amazon Kindle, Amazon Paperwhite, and Amazon Oasis. For a quick summary:
- The 2019 Kindle offers an affordable, capable option for only $89.95. The battery can last for up to four weeks, it includes 4 GB of storage, and it has built-in Bluetooth audio for listening to audiobooks.
- For a step up from a basic Kindle, experience the excellent display on the Kindle Paperwhite. It’s rated as waterproof, offers 8 GB of storage, and costs $129.99.
- Priced from $249 to $269, the Amazon Oasis offers a premium reading experience. It comes with a bigger screen, a six-week battery life, and up to 32 GB of storage space.
Make Sure a New Kindle Lasts a Long Time
While some folks may still have their old Kindles in a drawer, many users eventually lost them to wear, accidents, or component failures. On the plus side, Upsie offers Amazon Kindle protection plans for newly purchased devices on their tablet warranty page.
Consider these benefits of an Upsie Kindle warranty:
- For a lower price than other name-brand warranty companies, Upsie offers robust protection against accidents, screen issues, power failures, and much more.
- They also provide 24-7 claims service and will cover any Kindles purchased within the past 60 days. This includes new, used or refurbished models that come with at least a 30-day seller’s warranty.
- Unlike many warranty companies, Upsie also offers their customers a choice between local and mail-in services.
- Upsie customers can select either two or three years of protection.
Perhaps it is time to replace your Kindle eReader invest in a new device. An Upsie warranty can help ensure it lasts a long time.
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* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.