Amazon Kindle’s Shocking PC Feature Discontinuation
In a surprising move, Amazon is set to end a popular feature for Kindle users. Starting February 26, the “Download & Transfer via USB” option will no longer be available for downloading and backing up Kindle books to PCs. This decision could significantly impact users who rely heavily on this method for managing their Kindle library.
Key Details You Need to Know
- Feature Discontinuation: The ability to download and back up Kindle books to PCs will be removed.
- Alternative Options: Users can still send books to Kindle devices via Wi-Fi using the “Deliver or Remove from Device” option.
- Reason for Removal: While not explicitly stated by Amazon, it’s speculated that this change aims to prevent DRM removal and conversion of books to other formats.
Implications of the Change
The removal of this feature is likely a strategic move to retain users within the Kindle ecosystem. By limiting the ability to side-load books, Amazon might be encouraging users to purchase and read books directly on Kindle devices. This change primarily affects users who downloaded older books to remove DRM and convert them to formats like ePUB for use on other devices.
Impact on Users
- Unaffected Users: Users who download books via Wi-Fi or cellular networks, as well as Kindle app users on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, will not be impacted.
- USB Transfer Users: While this change targets USB transfer, users who have side-loaded books through USB will still have access to their content.
Conclusion
With this change, Amazon appears to be tightening its control over how Kindle books are used, potentially to reduce piracy and ensure that users remain within its ecosystem. This decision, while controversial, is a strategic move by Amazon to protect its digital content.
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