We don’t know when Amazon is going to release their next crop of new Kindles, but when they do there’s a good chance they’ll have user-replaceable batteries.
There’s a new law that goes into effect in the European Union in February 2027 that requires all smartphones and tablets sold there to have batteries that are easily replaceable without having to use any special tools.
It looks like Amazon is already preparing for this based on messages that are in the code for the software that runs on Kindles.
Over at MobileRead, Jhowell found the following messages embedded in the recent 5.19.4 software update:
This battery cannot be recognized and may not perform as expected. Charging has been limited to protect your device.
To return your device to its original performance specifications, we recommend installing a battery that complies with Amazon specifications.
Go to Settings > Device Options > Battery for battery troubleshooting guidance and support.
Scan the QR code below to purchase a battery replacement kit and view instructions for replacement.
Based on that, it’s pretty clear Amazon is planning on having replaceable batteries on next gen Kindles. I’m sure they’ll sell the kits at a good markup, and they’ll be happy to profit off of it.
Of course if Amazon wanted to be total jerks about it, they could just comply with the law in countries that require it by releasing different Kindles in different regions, but that would create more costs and other problems down the road.
Amazon could also put off the requirement by releasing new Kindles before February 2027, but if battery replacement notes are already appearing in Kindle software then it’s a good sign they’re probably not going to do it that way.
Kindle batteries tend to last for a long time since you don’t have to charge them very often. But it would be nice to have the option to easily replace the battery when it wears out. It would also be nice to be able to buy an original OEM battery instead of some mystery battery off of eBay or wherever.
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