Amazon backpeddles - you can pay $15 to remove Kindle Fire HD adverts
One time payment lets you go ad-free
After a slightly confusing back and forth between Amazon and several media outlets, the Kindle manufacturer confirmed that owners of the new Kindle Fire HD models can pay to turn off the 'Special Offer' lock screen promotions.
Alarm bells started ringing late last week when Amazon put out a press release detailing the new-and-improved Kindle Fire range.
The statement explained that, much like the cheaper e-ink Kindles, the lock screens of new Kindle Fires would feature 'special offer' adverts.
Notably, however, the statement included no information regarding an opt-out fee to remove these ads - an option which has been traditionally available to Kindle users.
Locked inAfter an inquiry from CNET, an Amazon spokesperson confirmed that there would be no buyout option for new Kindle Fire HD models. This meant owners would be stuck with the adverts, whether they wanted them or not.
However, following a few hours of internet outrage, Amazon released another statement saying that users will be able to remove the controversial ads after all - provided they pay a one-off $15 fee.
If you're a little confused (and we don't blame you if you are) you can read Amazon's follow-up statement to TechCrunch for clarification:
"I wanted to let you know that with Kindle Fire HD there will be a special offers opt-out option for $15. We know from our Kindle reader line that customers love our special offers and very few people choose to opt out. We're happy to offer customers the choice."
