Ledger Phases Out Nano S Model as New Security Tools Take the Lead

Ledger Retires a Crypto Classic

Ledger is officially phasing out the Nano S hardware wallet, one of its most recognizable and widely used products. In its Spring 2025 update, the French crypto wallet maker confirmed that the device will no longer support new app submissions, feature updates, or ongoing security upgrades. Users are being strongly urged to transition to newer devices like the Nano S Plus, Nano X, or the upcoming Ledger Flex and Ledger Stax.

The move signals a major shift for Ledger’s product line, as the seven-year-old Nano S, launched in 2016, has finally reached the end of its lifecycle. According to Ledger, rapid advancements in blockchain tech — from token standards to new privacy features — have rendered the Nano S insufficient for today’s needs.

Why Ledger Says It’s Time to Upgrade

Ledger explained that the limited memory and hardware constraints of the Nano S are no longer compatible with the demands of modern blockchain applications. The wallet runs on a Secure Element chip (ST31H320) with just 320 KB of flash memory, which was sufficient at launch but now falls short for users managing multiple assets across different chains.

The wallet’s lower RAM also means it can’t support new features like Clear Signing, NFT transactions via Ledger Live, Ledger Live swaps through THORChain and Uniswap, or even the latest language packs.

Ledger also warned companies that rely on the Nano S to start planning their transitions now. Developers are advised to inform users to secure their 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase and move to newer models to ensure continuity.

The Ledger Recovery Key

Alongside retiring the Nano S, Ledger is also launching a new security feature: the Ledger Recovery Key — a fully offline tool that allows users to securely restore wallet access without relying on cloud-based services or sharing personal information.

Unlike Ledger Recover, which encrypts fragments of recovery phrases and stores them in the cloud, the Ledger Recovery Key is stored offline on a smart card equipped with NFC connectivity and protected by a PIN code. The smart card connects directly to Ledger devices using secure channels with no intermediaries.

To reinforce user trust, Ledger has open-sourced the application code for the Recovery Key and subjected it to both internal white hat testing by its Donjon team and external audits by cybersecurity firm Synacktiv.

A Nod to the Future of Self-Custody

Ledger’s move reflects a broader shift in the crypto space — one where self-custody demands stronger hardware, smarter recovery tools, and more robust integrations. The company is betting that its users will want to keep up with this evolution, especially as DeFi, NFTs, and multi-chain usage become standard.

By retiring outdated tech and doubling down on security innovation, Ledger is carving out a future where users can transact confidently — with offline recovery options and cutting-edge wallet compatibility.