How to Set Up Your Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release)

Turn on your Kindle E-Reader and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.

Note: This set up instructions are applicable to Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release) , Amazon Kids Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release), and Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (2026 release).

Table of Contents

Basic Requirements

To start, have the following parts, accessories, and information ready:

  • The Kindle Paperwhite and in-box accessories
  • An Amazon account, including your email address or phone number and password
  • An internet connection, including your Wi-Fi name and password

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How to Set Up Your Device

Video guide to set up your device

  1. Press the power button located at the top right side of your Kindle.
  2. Select your device language.
  3. Select either Set up on this Kindle, OR Set up with your phone.
  4. Connect to Wi-Fi.
    Note: Once you set up the Wi-Fi, it may take a few minutes for the device to update with the latest software version.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your Kindle to your Amazon account.
  6. (Amazon Kids Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release) only) Activate your Amazon Kids+ Subscription
  7. (Amazon Kids Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release) only) Create child profiles and set a parental control PIN

Set up with your phone: Use Simple Setup with the Kindle app on your iOS or Android device to register your Kindle. To do this, you need the following:

  1. Your Kindle Paperwhite.
  2. The Kindle app running on your iOS/Android device.
    Note: Make sure to update your Kindle app with the latest version of software.
  3. Turn on Amazon Device Simple Setup in the Kindle app:
    1. Tap on More.
    2. Tap on Settings icon.
    3. Turn on the Amazon Device Simple Setup toggle button.
  4. Bluetooth turned ON on your phone, and Location Services turned ON (Android only).

Your Kindle app automatically detects your Amazon account and any previously saved Wi-Fi passwords to help with setup.

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Kindle Controls

Use your Kindle Paperwhite with only a few controls.

Illustration describing the Kindle (2026 release) with new button position
Table 1. Kindle Controls Description
Hardware Components Description
1. Power button To turn on your Kindle, press the Power button located on the top right corner.

To turn off your Kindle screen, press and hold the Power button for 9 seconds until the Power dialog box displays, then select Screen Off.

2. USB-C/power port

You can charge your Kindle with a USB-C cable and the Amazon charger (both sold separately).

You can also use the USB-C cable to transfer files to your Kindle. Learn more at our page Connect, Browse, and Transfer Files on E-Reader.

3. Kid-friendly cover (only applicable to Amazon Kids Kindle Paperwhite (2026 release)) The cover opens to wake the device and closes to put it to sleep. A range of kid-friendly designs are available to choose.

Pogo pin connector charging:

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition supports (A) wired and (B) Pogo pin connector charging with the Amazon Charging stand (sold separately).

Place your Kindle on any compatible pogo pin connected charger to start charging.

Note: Make sure to align the Kindle device pogo pin connector with the charger pogo pins.

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Troubleshoot Setup Issues

If setting up your device doesn't go as expected, here are a few suggestions:

  • If you get a login error or have forgotten your Amazon account password, you can reset your password. Go to Forgot Your Password.
  • If you have problems registering your Kindle to your Amazon account, try the troubleshooting steps available on the Get Help to Register Your Kindle E-Reader page.
  • If you can't find your network or connect to Wi-Fi, go to Resolve Wi-Fi Connection Issues on Your Kindle E-Reader.
  • If you're having issues with your Wi-Fi password, contact your internet service provider.

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Accessibility Features on Kindle E-Reader

The Kindle device has a screen reader feature designed to enhance the experience for customers with disabilities. To learn more, go to:

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You're Set Up, What's Next?

Once you've finished setting up your device, you can explore more features to improve your Kindle E-Reader experience. You can learn more in these resources:

  • Shop the Kindle Store to browse and buy books. For more guidance, visit Buy Books on Your Kindle E-Reader.
  • Use the Library tab to view your content. Content can be downloaded by tapping its cover.
  • Adjust brightness and warm light via the Quick Actions bar (swipe down from the top of the screen).
  • Pair Bluetooth headphones or a speaker to listen to Audible audiobooks.
  • Use a compatible cover to protect your device and enable auto wake and sleep.

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Video Guide to Set Up Your Device

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