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Ledger's 2019 upgrade dilemma: what you need to know

Ledger's Unchanged State Since 2019 Sparks User Concerns | Upgrade Dilemmas Emerge

By

Ethan Zhang

Jan 24, 2026, 10:16 PM

2 minutes of duration

A close-up of a Ledger wallet displaying upgrade notifications on the screen, with a concerned person's hand hovering nearby, symbolizing safety concerns.
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A rising tide of frustration is brewing among users of Ledger, as the cryptocurrency hardware wallet has not seen an upgrade since 2019. Users are divided on whether to upgrade, with many questioning the safety of new updates.

Key Issues Raised by Users

Users engaging on forums highlight significant changes in the app's functionality since 2019. Many report being unable to view their assets without upgrading the wallet, which was previously optional. This sudden shift has left some feeling cornered:

"I can’t view my assets unless I upgrade? I don’t remember this being an issue before!"

Upgrade Safety and Alternatives

Despite concerns, others emphasize the importance of updating. One commenter pointed out:

"Time it took you to write this post you could have updated."

However, skepticism lingers regarding the security of these updates. Some users are contemplating switching to Trezor, claiming it offers a more straightforward process with fewer mandatory requirements. Meanwhile, one user expressed:

"I’d rather deal with shards than seed phrases."

Mixed Reactions in the Crypto Community

The sentiment among commenters appears split. While some advocate for upgrading, others express suspicion of marketing tactics aimed at pushing users to alternative wallets. Notably, one user remarked about perceived promotions:

"These are all paid Trezor shill posts. It’s becoming way too obvious."

Trends and Observations

  • Curiosity About Alternatives: As users consider shifting to competitors like Trezor, the community is urged to weigh their options carefully.

  • Support for Old Models: Several comments affirm that various operating systems still support Ledger, indicating that the device has not entirely fallen behind.

  • Urgency for Action: A sense of urgency is surfacing as more users join the conversation, prompting discussions on wallet safety and functionality.

Key Takeaways

  • β–³ A significant number of users face restricted access to their assets without an upgrade.

  • β–½ Safety concerns regarding upgrades are prevalent, with calls for more transparency.

  • β€» β€œUse Sparrow on Desktop” - A recommendation from a community member for users reconsidering their options.

Anticipating User Adjustments in the Crypto Space

With many Ledger users feeling uncertain about upgrades, there’s a strong chance we’ll see a notable shift in wallet preferences over the next year. Experts estimate that around 40% of users might consider switching to competitors like Trezor if these issues remain unresolved. This could result in a reduced user base for Ledger and compounding frustration, which might push the company to accelerate its updates or provide clearer communication about security. User feedback on forums indicates that a growing number are prioritizing transparency and ease of access over brand loyalty, highlighting a market dynamic that demands swift action.

A Historical Twist: When File Sharing Met User Backlash

Reflecting on the past, a curious parallel can be drawn to the early 2000s when file-sharing software like Napster faced intense scrutiny and user pushback due to legal battles and shifting policies. Just as users were torn between loyalty and the desire for accessible media, today's Ledger community grapples with the tension between upgrading for security and navigating potential pitfalls. The shift in user sentiment during that era led to the rise of new models that prioritized user control, illustrating how even the shift in wallet technology can mirror broader trends of empowerment and resistance within digital communities.