Key Takeaways
1. Starting February 26, Amazon will no longer allow users to create local backups of eBooks purchased from the Kindle store.
2. Users can only download eBooks directly to their Kindle devices, losing the ability to maintain a local library.
3. The change raises concerns about Amazon’s control over users’ eBook libraries, reminiscent of past controversies like the deletion of “1984.”
4. Users will no longer be able to convert Kindle eBooks to other formats for use with different e-Readers.
5. This decision reflects a broader trend towards rental and licensing models in digital services.
In a world where digital services are increasingly leaning towards a rental and licensing approach, Amazon’s new policy will limit the options users have for handling their purchased content.
Changes to eBook Management
Starting on February 26, Amazon will stop letting users create local backups of eBooks bought from the Kindle store. This move effectively hands Amazon more authority over how individuals can manage the books they have bought for their Kindle devices.
Currently, buyers on Kindle have the choice to download a local copy of their eBooks and transfer them to their Kindle using a USB cable. This feature is particularly useful in areas with poor internet connectivity, providing a reliable way to maintain a Kindle library without the constant need for a network connection.
The New Limitations
However, after this Wednesday, users will no longer be able to download eBooks. The only method for getting an eBook onto a Kindle will be through a direct download to the device. Consequently, this means that users will lose the ability to maintain a local library of their purchased eBooks.
The announcement of this change has sparked considerable backlash from Kindle users. Many fear this decision will lead to tighter control over their libraries by Amazon. It also brings back memories of the controversial deletion of George Orwell’s 1984 more than 15 years ago. In that incident, Amazon removed the book from customer libraries after discovering that the seller lacked distribution rights, even erasing it from users’ devices despite them having paid for it.
Effects on eBook Formats
The ability to download eBooks purchased from Kindle has also allowed users to convert their books into other formats for compatibility with different e-Readers, such as the Kobo Clara, currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon. This option is likely to vanish soon. Essentially, it seems that after the 26th, any eBook acquired from Amazon will only be accessible on a Kindle and solely through a direct download.
If you wish to download local backups of your Kindle eBooks before the deadline, you can find the guidelines on how to do so here.
Amazon’s decision underscores a growing trend in the digital marketplace.
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