Skip to main content
Help & Customer Service

# Important Kindle E-Reader Software Update

The most recent software update for some Kindle e-readers provides updates needed to continue using some services on your device. This update should automatically download and install when your Kindle is charging and connected to a Wi-Fi network. If it doesn't, you may need to manually install the update to regain access to these features.

If your Kindle e-reader model requires an update, you may be unable to download Kindle content from the Cloud, access the Kindle Store, register or deregister your device, import collections, share content via social networks, or use Whispersync services, annotations backup, Goodreads, and Kindle FreeTime.

## Kindle E-Readers that Require Updates

The Kindle e-readers in the table below require the latest software version. If you are not sure which Kindle e-reader you have, refer to Which Kindle E-reader Do I Have?

Important: If your software version is higher than the version listed in the table, your device does not require an update. Additionally, the following device models are not impacted and do not require this update.

- Any Kindle e-reader model (7th Generation & newer)
- Fire tablets (any generation)

Your Kindle must be connected to Wi-Fi to download and install this update. This update will not download when connected to 3G. To learn more, see Download a Software Update via Wi-Fi.

Device Model | Software Version Your Device Needs | How to Check Your Software Version
--- | --- | ---
Kindle (1st Generation) | 1.2.1 | From Home, select Menu, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle (2nd Generation) | 2.5.8 | From Home, press the Menu button, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle DX (2nd Generation) | 2.5.8 | From Home, press the Menu button, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle Keyboard (3rd Generation) | 3.4.2 or higher | From Home, press the Menu button, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle (4th Generation) | 4.1.3 or higher | From Home, press the Menu button, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle (5th Generation) | 4.1.3 or higher | From Home, press the Menu button, and then select Settings. You will see the current software version at the bottom of the screen.
Kindle Touch (4th Generation) | 5.3.7.3 or higher | From Home, tap the Menu icon, and then tap Settings. Tap the Menu icon again, and then tap Device Info.
Kindle Paperwhite (5th Generation) | 5.6.1.1 or higher | From Home, tap the Menu icon, and then tap Settings. Tap the Menu icon again, and then tap Device Info.
Kindle Paperwhite (6th Generation) | 5.4.5.1 or higher | From Home, tap the Menu icon, and then tap Settings. Tap the Menu icon again, and then tap Device Info.

## Download a Software Update Wirelessly

To receive the latest software version available for your Kindle e-reader over a Wi-Fi network:

1. Plug your Kindle in to charge during the update.
2. Connect your Kindle to Wi-Fi.
3. Sync your Kindle. For Kindle Paperwhite (6th Generation), tap the Quick Actions icon, and then tap Sync My Kindle. For all other Kindle e-reader models, select or tap the Menu button, and then select Sync and Check for Items. The update should begin downloading automatically, even if your Kindle is in sleep mode.
4. Leave your Kindle connected to both power and Wi-Fi until the update is complete.

   Note: Your Kindle may restart multiple times and you may also see “Your Kindle is Updating” on the screen.

Once the update is complete, your Kindle should automatically restart and you should once again have access to all Kindle services on your device. If you do not receive the latest software update via Wi-Fi, you will need to transfer and install the software update manually.

Was this information helpful?

Yes No

Thank you for your feedback.

Please select what best describes the information:

This information is confusing or wrong
This isn't the information I was looking for
I don't like this policy
Submit

Thanks! While we're unable to respond directly to your feedback, we'll use this information to improve our online Help.

Go