Amazon may introduce a user-replaceable battery in its next-generation Kindle e-reader.

TechRadar reported on May 19 that Amazon's Kindle 5.19.4 firmware update is said to include wording pointing to a battery replacement kit, guidance documents and a battery diagnostics menu.

The discussion began on the MobileRead forum. Some users said they found wording in firmware that was released and then quickly pulled, assuming users would replace the battery themselves. Strings shared on the forum said, "This battery is not recognised and may not deliver expected performance. Charging has been limited to protect your device," "To restore your device's original performance specifications, we recommend installing a battery that meets Amazon specifications," and "Check troubleshooting guidance and support in Settings > Device Options > Battery."

It also included wording for a QR code for buying a battery replacement kit and instructions on how to replace it. If the signs lead to actual product plans, the next Kindle may involve changes to the device structure beyond swapping the battery. Many older Kindles were sealed with adhesive and were not easy to disassemble, and in some models the battery was attached to the body, making it hard for users to fix themselves.

The change also ties in with an EU regulatory timetable. From February 2027, consumer electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets will be subject to battery design requirements that make them easy to repair without specific tools. The outlet did not conclude that Kindle is directly included in the scope of the regulation, but put weight on the possibility that Amazon may also adjust repairability and the ease of battery replacement in its next product line-up.

Still, it is unclear whether the possibility will calm user complaints. Amazon will end support from May 20 for Kindles released before 2012. Users can keep reading books already downloaded on those devices, but after that date they will no longer be able to buy, borrow or download additional e-books. Amazon also plans to end its Send to Kindle feature that wirelessly sends e-books and document files purchased elsewhere.

User reaction has been strong. Some users said they are installing third-party apps such as KOReader via jailbreaking to avoid replacing their devices. One user rated the approach as "the best I've done so far". Others cautioned that jailbreaking can cause bugs, reduce battery life and create performance issues, and that it also raises concerns about piracy.

Amazon ultimately appears to be considering strengthening repairability and the ease of battery replacement in new hardware, while also increasing friction with its long-standing user base. Even if the next-generation Kindle adopts a replaceable battery, it remains to be seen how much it can offset backlash over the end of support for older models.