Google has announced a mandatory software update to address battery-related issues in some Pixel 6a phones. The update, which includes “battery management features,” artificially lowers battery performance to prevent potential catastrophic failures. This is the second time this year that an A-series phone’s battery has been restricted for safety reasons.
The issue stems from lithium-ion battery degradation, which can cause overheating and potentially lead to fires. Google has opted to restrict charging speed and battery capacity after 400 charging cycles. The company has contacted affected users directly, but hasn’t specified why some units are at risk while others aren’t.
If you own a Pixel 6a, you may be eligible for a free battery replacement, cash payment, or a Google Store discount code. However, your phone will undergo inspection before repairs can begin, and defects like water damage may disqualify it. Alternatively, you’ll receive a one-time payment of $100 or a $150 credit towards a new Pixel phone.
The move has raised concerns about the long-term reliability of A-series phones. This is not the first time this year that Google has restricted battery performance in an A-series device. The company’s efforts to address these issues are seen as admirable, but it remains to be seen how many affected units will actually last until their planned software update in 2031.
The Pixel 6a offers great value for its price, with a fantastic camera, good performance, and excellent software features. Despite this, the battery issue has cast a shadow over the device’s otherwise impressive specs.
Source: https://www.androidpolice.com/pixel-6a-battery-issues-explained