Amazon Updates Kindle E-Book Terms

Amazon has revised its purchasing terms for Kindle e-books in the U.S. to clarify that customers receive a license to the content instead of ownership. The statement now reads: “By placing your order, you’re purchasing a license to the content and agree to the Kindle Store Terms of Use.” This update applies only to U.S. customers, while international users continue to see the previous wording, which conveys the same message: ownership is not provided; usage is permitted.

Upcoming Changes to Kindle Features

Starting February 26, 2025, Amazon will eliminate the “Download & Transfer via USB” feature for Kindle devices. As a result, users will no longer be able to download Kindle books directly onto their computers for manual transfer. Access to purchased content will then rely solely on Amazon’s cloud services, emphasizing that true ownership is absent if access can be revoked.

Ownership in a Digital World

This issue extends beyond Amazon, impacting how all digital content is accessed today. For instance, streaming services limit access to songs and albums without an internet connection, unlike physical media which provided more freedom to listen, resell, or share.

Understanding Ownership

Ownership is traditionally seen as possessing something. Although digital content may be in our possession, it can be modified or removed at any moment, suggesting we lack true ownership. Oxford defines ownership as “The exclusive right to use, possess, and dispose of property,” indicating that exclusivity is crucial.

The Illusion of Digital Ownership

In the digital realm, your online identity is linked to handles, but it can also be restricted by platforms at their discretion. Similarly, while you have rights to your bank funds, those accounts can be frozen or seized, demonstrating that possession doesn’t equate to true ownership.

To genuinely own something, you must have the power to maintain possession and exclusivity, typically enforced through coercion or violence in the real world. However, in the digital landscape, encryption provides a means of enforcement, negating the threat of violence. Strong cryptography ensures ownership that cannot be overridden, as only those with the private key can access the protected information.

The Role of Encryption

Encryption not only safeguards digital ownership but also transforms power dynamics by eliminating violence from the equation. This disruption is pivotal for true ownership.

In encrypted systems, digital signing verifies ownership and control. For instance, PGP allows users to sign messages, while decentralized platforms like Nostr tie your identity to your private key, shielding you from censorship. Bitcoin showcases this concept; controlling private keys ensures only you can access and manage your cryptocurrency, making it impervious to seizure by banks or governments.

The saying “Not your keys, not your coins” highlights that if you don’t control your Bitcoin’s private keys, you don’t truly own it. Exchanges holding your keys subject your assets to freezing or withdrawal limitations, underscoring that real ownership requires holding your keys.

Conclusion: Control Your Keys

The transition from physical to digital has simplified access but complicated ownership. Regardless of whether it involves books, music, identity, or money, mere possession gives an illusion of ownership. Companies can revoke access, governments can seize funds, and platforms can erase identities. Encryption changes the narrative, making ownership enforceable through mathematics instead of institutional power. Hence, true digital ownership hinges on controlling your keys—otherwise, someone else remains the actual owner.

This article is a guest post by Will Jager. The opinions expressed are solely his own and do not necessarily represent those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.

This post Not Your Keys, Not Your Content: Ownership In A Digital Age first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Will Jager.