Amazon Angers Kindle Owners With Tougher DRM
The company has rolled out new digital rights management to the Kindle Oasis and closed a loophole for Libby loans, prompting some users to consider switching to other brands like Kobo
Amazon has rolled out tougher digital rights management (DRM) to the Kindle Oasis, sparking negative reactions from Kindle owners. The update, which has previously landed on most other Kindle models, means that most DRM-removal tools will no longer work.
The only supported Kindle model that doesn't have the new DRM is the Kindle Voyage, although it's likely that this model will also receive the update in the future. The changes have been met with frustration from users who like to read Kindle books on other devices or borrow digital library books using Libby.
Amazon has also closed an airplane mode loophole for Libby loans, which allowed users to keep borrowed books beyond their due date. Reddit users report being prompted to turn Wi-Fi on to access their Libby loans, making it impossible to keep the books longer than the loan period. This workaround was previously used by some users to extend their borrowing time, but it didn't harm anyone as the books would still be made available to other users after the loan period expired.
## Why it matters The changes have significant implications for Kindle users who value flexibility and convenience. The new DRM restricts users' ability to read their books on non-Amazon devices, and the closure of the Libby loophole limits their access to borrowed books. The online reactions to these changes have been overwhelmingly negative, with some users considering switching to other brands like Kobo.
The backlash against Amazon's new DRM and the closure of the Libby loophole highlights the ongoing tension between the company's efforts to protect its digital content and users' desires for greater freedom and flexibility. As the e-book market continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Amazon will balance these competing interests and respond to user concerns.
## What happens next It's likely that Amazon will continue to roll out the new DRM to its remaining Kindle models, including the Kindle Voyage. Users who are affected by the changes may need to explore alternative options, such as switching to other e-readers or finding new ways to access digital library books. As the situation develops, it will be important for users to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape of digital reading.
