Losing the connection

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Im sad that Amazonannounced recentlythat its doing away with the connection.

Older Kindle models will start to lose their built-in internet access in December.

A lineup of Kindles.

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The change comes because mobile carriers are ditching 3G networking technology in favor of newer 4G and 5G networks.

Aging Kindles without Wi-Fi wont be able to connect to the internet at all.

For many users, the loss of 3G wont mean much.

Three generations of Kindles stacked on top of each other.

Wikimedia Commons

After all, the Kindle makes a terrible unit for accessing the internet.

With its sluggish processor and monochrome screen, the Kindle is designed for reading, not browsing.

But the 3G internet connection offers a direct line to Amazons vast selection of books.

“Using the built-in 3G internet on the Kindle is an entirely different experience from connecting via Wi-Fi.”

Cutting the Cord

Dont worry if youve bought a Kindle reading gear recently.

However, you will still be able to load new content onto your gear using a micro-USB cable.

Its got a relatively big, 9.7-inch screen that makes reading easier.

Like other older Kindles, the DX has a built-in keyboard that offers a quirky, retro appeal.

Using the built-in 3G internet on the Kindle is an entirely different experience from connecting via Wi-Fi.

Self-contained, the Kindle becomes a magical book with seemingly never-ending pages.

I had an even better experience a few years ago traveling in Europe.

At least, Amazon is making gestures of condolences to some Kindle users left behind.

The company is offeringincentives to upgrade, including $70 off a new Kindle for 3G customers.