In a surprising move, Mozilla has announced the Mozilla Pocket shutdown, marking the end of one of the most beloved tools for digital readers. Pocket, known widely as a read-it-later app, allowed millions to save articles, stories, and web content to read at their convenience. Since its launch, Pocket became an essential save for later tool for both casual browsers and avid researchers.
As the countdown to its final days begins, users are now looking for ways to export Pocket saved articles and protect their data. This article covers everything you need to know about Pocket’s farewell and how to manage your information before the platform shuts down Pocket completely.
Table of Contents
When is Pocket Shutting Down? (Pocket Shutdown 2025 Timeline)
Mozilla Pocket shutdown will happen in phases. The app will be pulled from app stores on May 22, 2025. You won’t be able to download it after that date. On July 8, 2025, Mozilla will shut down Pocket completely. From then, users will only be able to access the Pocket export page to save data. After October 8, 2025, Pocket user account deletion and complete Pocket data deletion deadline will follow. This gives users only a short window to act.
Here is a helpful timeline:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 22, 2025 | Pocket app store availability ends |
| July 8, 2025 | Full Pocket shutdown begins |
| October 8, 2025 | Final data deletion timeline |
Why is Mozilla Shutting Down Pocket?
Mozilla’s decision to close Pocket is based on changing user habits. The internet has moved towards AI-driven content. People no longer use read-it-later services the same way. Mozilla wants to shift focus to areas like Firefox integration and new tools. They believe this move aligns better with how people read and save information now.
This isn’t a failure. It’s a strategic pivot. Pocket helped millions discover meaningful stories. But times change, and Mozilla Pocket shutdown is part of a bigger tech evolution.
Pocket’s Legacy: What Made It a Popular Read-it-Later App?
Pocket wasn’t just a save for later tool. It offered curated recommendations, offline reading, and simple tools to organize web content. After its start as “Read It Later,” Mozilla turned it into a hub for smart readers. The app even won awards for helping spread quality journalism.
From personalized feeds to global reach, Pocket did more than help people read later. Its content curation efforts were deeply appreciated, especially in the USA where media overload is common.
What Will Happen to Your Pocket Account and Saved Articles?
After July 8, Pocket moves to export-only mode. Users must visit the Pocket export page before October 8, 2025 to export Pocket saved articles. After that, Pocket user account deletion will start, and all data will be wiped.
You don’t need to manually delete your account. But if you don’t act, your articles, highlights, and notes will vanish. Mozilla warns users to download everything they want to keep before the data deletion timeline ends.
How to Export Pocket Data Before Shutdown (Step-by-Step Guide)
To save your Pocket content, go to the Pocket export page and log into your account. Choose the export format—HTML or CSV—and download the file. This will contain your reading list, archive, favorites, and notes.
Here’s a summary table for formats:
| Export Format | Content Type |
| HTML | Full list, clickable links |
| CSV | Easy to edit spreadsheet |
This ensures you don’t lose your personal reading history after the Mozilla Pocket shutdown.
Pocket Premium Refunds Explained
If you’re a Pocket Premium subscriber, you qualify for a prorated refund. Mozilla will handle this based on your original payment method. If you’re a monthly subscriber, Pocket subscription cancellation happens automatically. No refund is needed, and no new charges will occur.
Annual subscribers, however, will receive money back for unused months after July 8, 2025. This refund process for Pocket users will happen automatically, and no action is needed unless you used a different card.
What’s Next for Pocket Apps and Browser Extensions?
The Pocket app store availability ends on May 22. That means new users won’t be able to download the app. Existing users can keep using it until July 8, but then it enters export-only mode. After October 8, users should delete Pocket app manually.
The Pocket browser add-on will also stop working. Mozilla suggests users should remove Pocket extension manually from Chrome, Firefox, and other browsers using each browser’s support guide. This is called a manual uninstall.
Pocket API Shutdown: Impact on Developers and Integrators
The Pocket API termination will affect any apps or tools that connected to Pocket. If your app used Pocket to save articles, it will stop working by October 8, 2025. This includes popular third-party apps.
Impact on API users includes losing the ability to save, tag, or access Pocket data. Developers will need to find alternative APIs or inform users about the change in service.
What’s Happening to Pocket Hits and Recommended Articles?
The beloved Pocket Hits newsletter will now become Ten Tabs Firefox newsletter. While the name changes, the newsletter transition will keep the same editors. Expect five emails a week instead of daily.
You don’t need to do anything to stay subscribed. This is part of Mozilla’s decision to continue sharing curated recommendations even after they shut down Pocket.
Best Pocket Alternatives in 2025 (Free & Paid)
Now that Pocket is closing, many are searching for other read-it-later services. Here are a few great Pocket alternatives you can use:
| Service | Free Plan | Paid Features | Platforms |
| Instapaper | Yes | Speed reading, notes | iOS, Android, Web |
| Raindrop.io | Yes | Full-text search, backups | All major platforms |
| Matter | Yes | Audio reading, highlights | iOS, Web |
| Omnivore | Yes | Tagging, markdown | Web, Mobile |
Each of these helps you save for later, just like Pocket. Some even offer import tools to bring in your old Pocket data.
Read Also: What Is Chatbot UI? A Complete Guide to Designing Conversational Interfaces
Conclusion
The Mozilla Pocket shutdown is the end of an era. It was more than a tool—it was a part of daily life for many Americans. If you haven’t yet, export saved articles from Pocket before the deadline. Act early to avoid losing important content.
Look into other read-it-later services, and stay informed through the new Ten Tabs Firefox newsletter. While it’s sad to say goodbye, the world of digital reading has plenty of exciting paths ahead.
FAQs
Why is Pocket shutting down in 2025?
Mozilla is focusing on different projects, and user habits have shifted.
Can I still use Pocket after July 8, 2025?
Only in export mode. You must act before the Pocket data deletion deadline on October 8.
What happens to my Pocket Premium plan?
You’ll get a prorated refund if you paid annually. Monthly vs annual subscribers are treated differently.
How can I remove the Pocket extension?
Visit your browser’s help center to learn how to remove Pocket extension.
Where can I export my data?
Use the official Pocket export page.
Will my refund go back to my card?
Yes, the original payment method will be used.
Is the Pocket newsletter gone?
No, it has become the Ten Tabs Firefox newsletter, still with curated recommendations.
What’s a good replacement for Pocket? Try Pocket alternatives like Instapaper or Matter for a smooth transition.