Key Takeaways
1. Google will reduce the battery capacity of the Pixel 6a through a mandatory update starting July 8, which will be included with Android 16.
2. This “battery performance improvement update” aims to lower battery voltage to prevent overheating after incidents of some devices catching fire.
3. Not all Pixel 6a devices will be affected; the impact depends on the battery supplier for each device.
4. Affected users will have three compensation options: free battery replacement, a discount code for a new smartphone, or a cash payment.
5. Google has not yet disclosed the amounts for the discount code or cash payout, but previous compensation for Pixel 4a users was $100 voucher or $50 cash.
Just a few months ago, Google significantly reduced the battery capacity of the Pixel 4a through an update. Now, they are set to do the same for the Pixel 6a. This update was first announced in mid-June, and Google has provided more information on a support webpage. Most crucially, they revealed the release date. Starting July 8, the update will be automatically and mandatorily installed on all impacted Pixel 6a devices. Users will easily notice the update since it will come together with Android 16.
Battery Performance Claims
Interestingly, Google refers to this patch as a “battery performance improvement update,” even though it acknowledges that the patch will lower both battery capacity and charging performance after 400 charging cycles. The reason behind this change is due to incidents where some Pixel 6a devices caught fire. The lower battery voltage aims to prevent overheating. Google points out that this update does not affect every Pixel 6a phone, similar to the case with the Pixel 4a. This likely varies based on the battery supplier for each device.
Compensation Options for Users
Like with the Pixel 4a, Google is providing affected Pixel 6a owners three options for compensation regarding the diminished battery life. Beginning July 21, users can have the smartphone’s battery replaced at no cost to restore full capacity. Alternatively, Google is providing a discount code for those looking to purchase a new smartphone from the Google Store. Lastly, customers can choose to receive a cash payment as compensation.
Google has yet to disclose the value of the discount code or the cash payout amount. For context, affected Pixel 4a users received either a $100 voucher or a $50 cash payment. Users can find out if their Google Pixel 6a is impacted by visiting this website.
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