Fix: Kindle Book is not Compatible With Device

Update the Kindle device to bypass this issue

Fix » Peripherals

Reading time icon 4 min. read

Calendar icon Updated on

by Loredana Harsana 

updated on

Share this article

Readers help support Windows Report. We may get a commission if you buy through our links. Tooltip Icon

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial team Read more

Key notes

  • Older or entry-level Kindle devices may have limitations on the file formats they support.
  • This may be triggered if your outdated device or the book is under DRM protection.
  • You can overcome this error by updating your PC's Kindle device and app.

A Kindle book is an electronic or digital book specifically formatted and designed to be read on Amazon Kindle devices or through the Kindle reading app.

It is pretty frustrating that some of our readers have recently reported encountering Kindle books not compatible with device error. This article will discuss what causes this and possible ways to resolve the issue.

Why is the Kindle book not compatible with the device?

There are several reasons why a Kindle book may not be compatible with a particular device. Thus, here are some common reasons:

  • Unsupported format – If the book you are trying to access is in a format that is not supported by your device, it will result in an incompatibility issue.
  • Outdated software/firmware – If your device’s software or firmware is outdated and doesn’t support the specific Kindle book format, you may encounter compatibility issues.
  • Device limitations – Older or entry-level Kindle devices may have limitations on the file formats they support, rendering certain Kindle books incompatible.
  • Regional restrictions – Some books are only available for specific countries or regions, and attempting to access them from an unsupported location will show as incompatible.
  • DRM restrictions – Some Kindle books have Digital Rights Management (DRM) protection, which limits their compatibility with specific devices or apps registered under your Amazon account.

The above are common reasons behind the Kindle book not compatible with device errors that users may encounter. Let’s proceed to what to do if you encounter this issue.

What can I do if Kindle book isn’t compatible with the device?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, you should consider performing the following preliminary checks:

  • Check if the Kindle book is not under DRM protection.
  • Check if there are any regional restrictions for the Kindle book.
  • Ensure that your device is compatible with the Kindle book.

Having confirmed the above checks, if you require further assistance, you can work through any of the solutions provided below.

1. Manually update the Kindle app for PC

  1. Visit the Kindle download app webpage and click on the Download for PC & Mac button.
  2. Save the downloaded file and navigate to its location on your computer.
  3. Further, a small window on your screen will tell you the app is set up.
  4. The app will now be updated with new features.

The Kindle app for PC will, most of the time, update itself automatically. But if you encounter a Kindle book incompatible with a device error like this, you can visit the official Kindle website.

 2. Convert the book format using a third-party tool

If the format is unsuitable for your Kindle e-book reader, you may use a conversion tool to get the book to the desired one.

Epubor Ultimate is one of the best software you can use to convert the format of your e-book. This app is very powerful and easy to use and supports almost any e-book format. You can also use this tool to remove the protection from your book or transform an audible to MP3.

Epubor Ultimate

Enjoy your e-books in any format you like with this powerful software.
Free Trial Visit Website

3. Update your Kindle device

  1. Tap anywhere on the screen and select the downward-facing arrow on the topmost section of the screen.
  2. Then, click on all Settings.
  3. Then, tap on Device Options and select Update Your Kindle.

Updating the Kindle app to the latest software version should ensure compatibility with Kindle books and access to the latest features and improvements.

And that’s it on what to do if you’re getting a Kindle book incompatible with a device error. Hopefully, one of the methods in this guide will help you fix the issue.

If your Kindle is not downloading books, or your BorrowBox app is not working, you can explore our detailed guide on fixing the issue.

Also, if your PC fails to recognize your Kindle, there are specific fixes.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Loredana Harsana

Loredana Harsana Shield

Windows Software Expert

Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts. Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you'll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.