Memory constraints behind Ledger’s decision to end Nano S software support, says CTO

Ledger will phase out software support and updates for its nine-year-old Nano S hardware wallet due to memory constraints that restrict the product from utilizing modern crypto apps and security upgrades, Chief Technology Officer Charles Guillemet explained on X. Ledger officially retired the model in 2022 but continued to provide limited updates. That software maintenance is now winding down, although the wallet can be used as usual.Guillemet noted that LedgerOS, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and exchange apps already consume nearly all available 320 KB space, leaving “very little room for anything else.” The small memory blocks new features such as multi-app runtimes, advanced clear-signing, Ledger Sync transaction check, and on-device swaps through Uniswap and other protocols, he added.Without these tools, Ledger Nano S could lag behind contemporary utility and security standards. “These newer features are crucial for improving clarity, usability, and, most importantly, security in today's complex crypto landscape,” Guillemet wrote.Nano S owners can keep using BTC, ETH, and other core apps for basic send, receive, and swap functions. Private keys remain portable, meaning users may restore their 24-word seed on any new Ledger device or BIP-39-compatible wallet. Ledger advised customers to transition to newer hardware, such as the Nano S Plus, launched in April 2022.The news divided crypto users on social media. Some accused Ledger of forcing purchases and claimed migrating to a new device may leave wallet holders open to cyberattacks.Not everyone agrees with the online backlash against Ledger. Aave contributor Marc Zeller said it's standard to end software support for outdated hardware, as chips have a natural lifespan. However, Zeller agreed that Ledger should have halted Nano S sales sooner.Elsewhere, Ledger rolled out its Recovery Key this week, a physical spare key for users to quickly recover their crypto wallets.Disclaimer: The Block is an independent media outlet that delivers news, research, and data. As of November 2023, Foresight Ventures is a majority investor of The Block. Foresight Ventures invests in other companies in the crypto space. Crypto exchange Bitget is an anchor LP for Foresight Ventures. The Block continues to operate independently to deliver objective, impactful, and timely information about the crypto industry. Here are our current financial disclosures.© 2025 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.