How to customize your Kindle screensaver: tips and options

To change your Kindle's screensaver, the first step is to eliminate ads. Kindles with Special Offers cost $20 less but display advertisements while sleeping. Before any customization, these offers must be removed for a $20 fee.

Removing Special Offers

On a desktop, go to Amazon's website, log in, and navigate to "Digital Content & Devices." Select "Manage Content and Devices," then the "Devices" tab. Choose your Kindle and click "Remove Offers." On the mobile app, use Alexa by saying "I want to end Special Offers on my Kindle," which will lead to the device management page. Note that non-US users with a US-version Kindle may need to provide a US address and a card with US billing to complete the payment.

Displaying book covers

After removing ads, the Kindle shows Amazon-provided illustrations. Newer models can display the cover of the book you are currently reading. Supported devices include Kindle Colorsoft, Scribe, 8th generation and newer, Paperwhite 7th generation and newer, Oasis 8th generation and newer, and Kindle Voyage. To enable this, tap the three-dot menu, go to "Device Options," and toggle "Display Cover" on. On newer devices, look for "Show covers on lock screen" under "Screen and brightness."

Using custom images

Unfortunately, there is no way to set a permanent custom image without jailbreaking the device. However, a trick exists: replace the cover of a book with your desired image, then open that book before locking the device. First, create an image (recommended resolution 2560 x 1600 pixels) and save as PNG. Use Calibre or an online tool to convert a file to EPUB and set the new image as cover. Then send the file to your Kindle via "Send to Kindle." To see the image, you must open that specific book before putting the device to sleep. This method is not straightforward but effectively personalizes the Kindle.