What changed with Kindle DRM and library loans?
Amazon has made two major changes that impact how you use Kindle eReaders: a new, tougher DRM now protects Kindle books, and the so-called 'airplane mode loophole' for borrowed library books (via the Libby app) is no longer effective. Most currently supported Kindle models, including the Kindle Oasis, now make it much harder to remove DRM, which limits your ability to read purchased books on non-Kindle devices. At the same time, overdue library books borrowed with Libby can no longer be kept past their due date simply by leaving your Kindle in airplane mode—you'll now be prompted to reconnect to Wi-Fi, which removes access to expired loans.
Who should consider switching eReader brands?
If you value flexibility—like the ability to transfer your eBooks to other devices, back up your collection, or use third-party reading apps—these new rules may frustrate you as a Kindle owner. The tighter DRM especially impacts anyone who buys books from Amazon but wants to read them elsewhere, such as on Kobo or Onyx Boox devices that don't support Kindle apps natively. Library users who are used to extending their loans unofficially will lose that benefit as well.
Kobo eReaders remain less restrictive regarding DRM, so transferring and managing books is easier if you purchase from their store or use DRM-free files. However, the strict library loan expiry is largely standard across platforms—including Kobo—so long-term borrowing tricks now rarely work anywhere. If your reading habits rely on flexibility or using a wide range of formats and sources, Kobo or another open-platform eReader may be a better fit than Kindle.
Comparing Kindle and Kobo for typical eReader buyers
For most mainstream users who read directly on their eReader and buy books through one ecosystem, these changes may not matter day-to-day. Kindle still offers one of the largest eBook selections and seamless integration with Amazon services, making it an easy "plug and play" choice. But Kobo is a strong alternative—especially if you rely on sideloading (adding your own files), supporting more formats (like EPUB), and easier library integration via OverDrive or Libby.
It's also worth factoring in hardware differences, pricing, and available accessories. Kobo offers models with larger screens, stylus support, and more granular file management, while Kindle tends to focus on simplicity and price-to-value ratio. Assess which feature set matches your reading style—and remember that your long-term access to purchased books is increasingly at the mercy of software updates in the Kindle ecosystem.
Practical implications for eReader buyers
For privacy-minded or tech-savvy readers, Amazon's tightening DRM and closed ecosystem increasingly mean giving up control over your purchases. If you are library-focused, know that the window to "keep" borrowed books past the lending period is closing everywhere. The trade-offs come down to convenience versus control: Kindle remains the simplest solution for most, but Kobo and other open readers offer more freedom if you value file ownership and flexibility. Before committing to any ecosystem, consider how much long-term access and cross-device compatibility matter to you as a reader.