Ledger Nano S Backlash: Users Revolt Over Forced Hardware Wallet Upgrades
Ledger just triggered a crypto community meltdown—by strong-arming Nano S users into expensive upgrades. Cue the outrage.
When hardware wallets turn into shake-downs
The Paris-based firm—once the darling of self-custody purists—is now facing accusations of planned obsolescence. Their crime? Sunsetting support for the still-functional Nano S while pushing pricier alternatives. Talk about a 'hardware exit scam.'
Active Nano S devices will reportedly stop receiving critical security updates by Q3 2025—effectively bricking them for serious use. No migration path. No grandfathering. Just a not-so-subtle nudge toward their €149 Nano X.
Bonus jab: Nothing boosts upgrade conversion rates like intentionally crippling old products—ask any investment banker about 'growth strategies.'
TLDR
- Ledger announced in May 2025 it is ending support for the Nano S hardware wallet, which launched in 2016
- New applications, features, and app updates will no longer be accepted for the Nano S model
- Users must upgrade to newer models like Nano S Plus or Nano X to maintain full functionality and security
- The company stopped manufacturing the Nano S and cites limited storage capacity as the main reason
- Many users expressed frustration on social media about being forced to buy new devices and transfer their seed phrases
Ledger announced in May 2025 that it will stop supporting the Nano S hardware wallet. The company made the announcement in its Spring update on May 30, telling users they need to upgrade to newer models.
The Nano S launched in 2016 and became Ledger’s first major consumer success. Some devices are now close to 10 years old, making them outdated by current crypto standards.
Ledger said it will no longer accept new applications, feature submissions, or app updates for the Nano S. The company also stopped manufacturing the device entirely.
The hardware wallet Maker published another notice in April urging users to transition to new devices. Ledger told users to make sure they have their 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase before making any changes.
Many users only discovered the announcement recently through social media. The news sparked anger and disappointment across crypto communities.
Limited Storage Creates Problems
Ledger explained that the crypto landscape has changed since 2016. The Nano S has limited storage capacity that cannot support most new use cases.
The company said the device’s constraints make it unable to handle modern blockchain protocols. This technical limitation pushed Ledger to focus resources on newer models.
Users who keep using the Nano S will lose access to latest security features. They also won’t get compatibility updates or support for new blockchain developments.
A ethereum ecosystem developer called the move “very uncool” on social media. The user said Ledger was forcing people to buy new devices and enter seed phrases again.
Very uncool Ledger – you effectively force anyone to buy and enter the seed into a new device. Ledger Nano S is fucking goated. I understand you're a business but don't play with backwards compatibility guys (many rely on LNS!). You're one of the few trusted parties out there and… pic.twitter.com/HzZ3BmXlfd
— sudo rm -rf –no-preserve-root / (@pcaversaccio) June 25, 2025
Another user questioned whether Ledger was deprecating existing devices just to force sales. Many expressed frustration about the business decision.
User Concerns About Security
Some users asked whether their Nano S devices WOULD still work after support ends. Others worried about potential security risks from using unsupported hardware.
One user said the device would probably still work but wouldn’t receive updates. This could make it more likely to break or develop security issues.
A Pudgy Penguins project manager called the transition a “major bummer.” The user advised others to back up their seed phrases and transfer assets if needed.
Major bummer – def disappointed in this decision from Ledger.
If you use the Nano S currently, make sure you have your seed phrase backed up and if necessary transfer assets to new wallets.
Don’t want to be caught with a broken device after updates stop. https://t.co/5GK4Hw56yM
— Beau (@beausecurity) June 25, 2025
Tornado Cash developer Roman Semenov said he stopped updating his Ledger years ago. He claimed the device doesn’t need updates to work properly.
Ledger recommends users upgrade to the Nano S Plus or Nano X models. These newer devices have more storage and support for current blockchain protocols.
The company did not respond to requests for comment about the discontinuation. Users now face the choice between upgrading or continuing with unsupported hardware.
