Amazon's Upcoming Change: The End of Kindle Ebook Backups

Amazon is set to remove a key feature for Kindle users: the ability to download and backup their purchased ebooks via USB. Starting February 26, 2025, the "Download & Transfer via USB" option will no longer be available on Amazon's website for Kindle ebooks. This change will impact users who rely on this feature for backing up their purchases or converting them to other formats compatible with non-Kindle e-readers.

What's Changing?

The removal of the "Download & Transfer via USB" option means that users will no longer be able to download copies of their Kindle books to their computers. After February 26, users will only be able to download books via Wi-Fi or through the Amazon platforms. This change could affect users who don't have access to Wi-Fi or prefer to have offline copies of their ebooks.

Why the Change?

Amazon has not officially announced the reason behind this decision. However, it is possible that the company is looking to streamline its services or reduce the number of support requests related to the feature. Additionally, the shift towards newer Kindle devices that support Wi-Fi and don't require USB transfers might be a factor in Amazon's decision.

What Does This Mean for Kindle Users?

1. Loss of Backup Capabilities: Without the ability to download ebooks, users will no longer be able to create backups of their purchases. This could lead to a loss of access to content if Amazon's services or the user's account is compromised, or if the user decides to switch to a different platform.
2. Difficulty in DRM Removal: The "Download & Transfer via USB" option was also used by users to remove DRM from ebooks, allowing them to read their purchases on non-Kindle devices. The removal of this feature could make DRM removal more difficult, potentially leading to increased piracy or a decrease in consumer willingness to purchase ebooks.
3. Potential Market Shift: If users become dissatisfied with Amazon's restrictions, they may look for alternative platforms that offer more flexibility. This could lead to a shift in market share among ebook retailers, with competitors like Kobo, Apple Books, or Google Books potentially gaining market share.

Alternatives for Kindle Users

Kindle users have several strategic alternatives to mitigate the loss of the "Download & Transfer via USB" feature:

1. Switching to Alternative E-readers or Platforms: Users can explore alternative e-readers, such as Kobo or Nook, which support the EPUB format and offer more flexibility in terms of backup and DRM removal. Additionally, the Libby app allows users to borrow ebooks from their local library, supporting multiple formats, including EPUB.
2. Removing DRM from Kindle Ebooks: Users can remove DRM from their Kindle ebooks using tools like Calibre and DeDRM plugins. This allows them to convert their ebooks to other formats, such as EPUB, and read them on alternative devices or platforms. However, it's essential to note that DRM removal is a legal gray area, and users should be aware of the potential risks and ethical implications.
3. Purchasing Ebooks from Other Platforms: Users can explore alternative ebook platforms, such as Google Books, Apple Books, or eBooks.com, which offer DRM-free books and support various formats. By purchasing ebooks from these platforms, users can maintain control over their content and avoid being locked into a single ecosystem.



In conclusion, Amazon's decision to remove the "Download & Transfer via USB" option for Kindle ebooks will have significant implications for users who rely on this feature for backing up their purchases or converting them to other formats. While the reasons behind the change are not yet clear, users should be aware of the potential impacts and explore alternative solutions to maintain control over their content.