Email from Rakuten Kobo just now:
We have important news for you regarding your Kobo Mini eReader.
Your Kobo Mini eReader requires a mandatory software update by February 28, 2019. To stay aligned with global internet security standards, we are releasing a mandatory software update for all Kobo eReaders. Without this update, your Kobo Mini eReader will no longer be able to exit the setup process after a factory reset is performed.
Rest assured that no items in your Kobo library will be affected; you will continue to have access to all reading material you have purchased or downloaded from Rakuten Kobo.
How to update your Kobo Mini's software
Follow the prompts on your Kobo Mini to install the update before February 28. If you are unable to do this before February 28, you will need to install the update manually using the Kobo Desktop Application for Windows or OSX.
- Connect your eReader to your computer using a Micro USB cable and tap Connect.
- Open Kobo Desktop on your computer.
- If you're not already signed in to your Kobo account, click the Profile icon at the top of your screen and sign in.
- Click the Sync icon.
- Your eReader will sync and update with the latest software.
- Click the Eject button at the top of the screen to disconnect your eReader from your computer.
Read with Kobo with the free Kobo App
You can download the free Kobo App available for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, and read with Kobo on a device you already own.
If you have any questions or concerns about this message, please contact Kobo Customer Care.