February 22, 2025

Kindle Controversy: Amazon sets a deadline for you to "own" your books.

19 minutes

Amazon's New Kindle Terms of Service Explained | With Mike Vardy

Links from this episode:

https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/amazon-changes-licensing-text-when-kindle-books-are-purchased

Step by Step walkthroughs to download your books (if it still is possible)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGJDisov240

In this episode of Gray Matters, Steve Dotto and guest Mike Vardy discuss Amazon's upcoming changes to the Kindle bookstore's terms of service, effective February 25, 2025. These changes mean that when you 'purchase' a Kindle book, you are actually only licensing it, similar to how streaming services operate. They explore the implications for users, such as potential removal of books from your library and the challenges of downloading and retaining books. They also discuss the growing distrust in high-tech companies and alternative e-reader options like Kobo. Tune in for important insights and practical tips on navigating these changes.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:25 Amazon's New Terms of Service

01:17 Implications of Licensing vs. Owning

02:04 Potential Impact and Concerns

02:38 Discussion with Mike Vardy

05:39 Historical Context and Precedents

09:31 Steps to Protect Your eBooks

12:37 Exploring Alternatives to Kindle

16:32 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

19:09 Conclusion and Engagement

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