In 2025, lockscreen ads on Kindle devices continue to be a hot topic among e-reader enthusiasts, and for good reason. With Amazon’s recent 5.18.3 software update for Kindles, the way lockscreen ads on Kindle are managed has taken a notable turn. But what exactly are lockscreen ads on Kindle, and why are they stirring up discussions once again?
Understanding Lockscreen Ads on Kindle
For years, Amazon has offered customers the choice to buy a Kindle at a lower price with “Special Offers.” These Special Offers are essentially lockscreen ads on Kindle that appear when the device is turned off or in sleep mode. These ads help Amazon subsidize the cost of the device by displaying promotions for books, deals, and sometimes other products.
While many users accept this trade-off for a cheaper Kindle, lockscreen ads on Kindle have long been a source of annoyance for readers who simply want to enjoy their books without distractions.
What’s New with Lockscreen Ads on Kindle in 2025?
The biggest news right now is Amazon’s quiet but significant update. With the release of the 5.18.3 software update last month, all recent Kindle models—including the 11th and 12th generation Kindles—now feature new settings to manage lockscreen ads on Kindle more effectively.
For the first time, users can find a new option under Settings > Your Account > Lockscreen Ads. Here, Kindle owners can enable a filter to hide ads that might be inappropriate for general audiences. This is a welcome change for parents and anyone uncomfortable with the occasional suggestive book cover that has slipped through in the past.
Personalization: A Double-Edged Sword
Another new feature is the ability to toggle personalized lockscreen ads on Kindle on or off. By default, ads are personalized based on your browsing and purchase history. While this can make ads more relevant, some users prefer privacy over targeted promotions. The update gives readers more control over whether their lockscreen ads on Kindle are tailored to them or kept generic.
However, some critics argue that Amazon should not display any inappropriate or adult-themed content as lockscreen ads on Kindle in the first place. While the new filter is a step in the right direction, it highlights ongoing concerns about the nature of ad-supported devices.
Can You Remove Lockscreen Ads on Kindle Completely?
One frequent question is whether it’s possible to remove lockscreen ads on Kindle altogether. While Amazon once allowed users to request ad removal for free, that policy changed last year. Now, readers must pay about $20 to permanently disable lockscreen ads on Kindle.
For many, this extra fee is worth it to enjoy an uninterrupted reading experience. Some have even discovered workarounds, such as using kids mode, to avoid lockscreen ads on Kindle without paying the removal fee.
The Bottom Line
So, what do these changes mean for Kindle users? The addition of new filters and personalization controls gives readers more say in what appears on their screens. Still, for many, lockscreen ads on Kindle remain a small but persistent reminder that the low upfront cost comes with strings attached.
If you’re considering a new Kindle, it’s worth deciding upfront whether you’re comfortable with lockscreen ads on Kindle or if you’d rather pay a bit more for an ad-free experience from the start.
