In a significant change, Amazon has announced the removal of the ‘Download & Transfer via USB’ feature for Kindle books, effective February 26, 2025. This option allowed users to download purchased eBooks to their computers and transfer them to their Kindles via USB. While many Kindle users may not rely on this feature due to the convenience of Wi-Fi, it has been a valuable tool for backing up purchases and converting books to other formats, particularly for those using non-Kindle devices.
Amazon’s spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating that users will still have access to their previously downloaded books and can read new content through Kindle apps and Wi-Fi-enabled devices. However, the removal raises concerns about digital ownership, as users may lose access to purchased titles if they are ever removed from Amazon’s library. ⚠️
As the digital landscape evolves, this change serves as a reminder that while technology simplifies access, it also limits control over digital content. Users will still have alternatives for transferring files, but the convenience of downloading directly to a computer will no longer be available. ✨