Kindle 2.5.2 software upgrade

The rollout of the 2.5 software update for the Kindle has not been Amazon.com’s proudest moment of customer service.

Perhaps they were wise to not release the 2.5 update en masse over the Whispernet service–as evident by the already updated version of 2.5.2. But they should have made the 2.5, or at least the new 2.5.2, available for download via the Amazon.com website (like previous firmware updates) for those both anxious to try out the new features and/or (in the case of the 2.5 firmware) willing to suffer through a few bugs.

Well, the 2.5.2 firmware has managed to find its way to the internet thanks to some Kindle owners who copied the file before the upgrade process began.

Note: This update DOES WORK (I have installed this file on my Kindle 2 International), but this particular update is only for Kindle 2 International versions and you must have 2.3.4 firmware currently installed.  If you currently have version 2.3.3, install the 2.3.4 bin file first.

[To check your current firmware version, from the home screen click “MENU” -> “Settings” and then look at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen]

Instructions for upgrading to 2.5.2

1. If you currently have firmware version 2.3.4, skip to Step 4.  If your current version is 2.3.3 download the 2.3.4 firmware update (59KB) here.
2. Connect your Kindle to your computer via the USB cable and copy the file, “Update_kindle2_gw_2.3.4.bin” to root directory of the Kindle (note: do NOT place it in the folders, “audible”, “documents” or “music”).
3. Unplug the Kindle. From the Kindle’s home screen, click “MENU” -> “Settings” -> “MENU” -> “Update Your Kindle” and follow the instructions
4. Download the 2.5.2 firmware update (13.2MB) here.
5. Connect your Kindle to your computer via the USB cable and copy the file, “Update_kindle2_gw_2.5.2.bin” to root directory of the Kindle (note: do NOT place it in the folders, “audible”, “documents” or “music”).
6. Unplug the Kindle. From the Kindle’s home screen, click “MENU” -> “Settings” -> “MENU” -> “Update Your Kindle” and follow the instructions

You now have the the latest software for your Kindle.  A summary of the improvements:

• Collections: Organize your books and documents into one or more collections (instructions).
• PDF Pan and Zoom: Zoom into PDFs and pan around to easily view small print and detailed tables or graphics (instructions).
• Password Protection: Password protect your Kindle when you’re not using it (instructions).
• More Fonts & Improved Clarity: Enjoy two new larger font sizes and sharper fonts for an even more comfortable reading experience.
• Facebook & Twitter Posts: Share book passages with friends on Facebook and Twitter directly from your Kindle (instructions).
• Popular Highlights: See what the Kindle community thinks are the most interesting passages in the books you’re reading.