Tag: Battery Swelling

  • Battery Swelling in Switch 2 May Cause Bulging Consoles, Says Nintendo

    Battery Swelling in Switch 2 May Cause Bulging Consoles, Says Nintendo

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns have emerged about battery swelling in the Switch 2, with users sharing images of bulging consoles on social media.
    2. Reports indicate that swelling issues are affecting the console’s casing, raising alarms among gamers and prompting contact with Nintendo Support.
    3. Swelling lithium-ion batteries have a history in handheld gaming devices, though the original Switch had fewer reported cases.
    4. The battery swelling issue is particularly troubling for a new console, suggesting a possible manufacturing defect rather than user error.
    5. Players have reported inaccurate power level readings and frustrations with battery life, but these concerns may not be directly linked to hardware problems.

    Despite its initial success, the Switch 2 has raised some concerns about its battery. The most recent issue is about potential swelling in its rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Many gamers have shared images of consoles that are bulging on platforms like Reddit and social media. One customer who reached out to Nintendo Support was informed that the company is looking into the matter.

    Notable Reports on Social Media

    A Reddit user named Tombyt3 highlighted a misshapen handheld that has caught people’s attention. Although it might be hard to spot at first, the back panel of the console is no longer flat. Automaton reported a similar case from a Japanese Switch 2 owner, who noted that the left side of the device’s casing was lifting. This gamer has also contacted Nintendo Support regarding the issue.

    History of Battery Issues in Gaming Devices

    Swelling lithium-ion batteries have been a problem for various handheld gaming devices, such as the Sony PSP. While this issue is less frequent with the original Switch, there have been some cases where its back panel has expanded. Even controllers have faced this problem. Battery swelling can happen due to overcharging, even with the Switch 2’s settings designed to prevent it. Additionally, storing or playing consoles in very hot conditions can lead to damage, and in severe cases, even fires.

    Concerns for a New Console

    What’s alarming about the battery swelling issue with the Switch 2 is that it is a new console. Typically, such problems are found with older systems that have been charged many times or left unused for long periods. However, teardowns of the console indicate that the back panels are not bulging where the battery is located. This might suggest a manufacturing defect instead of user error, and the design of the handheld makes it challenging for users to change the battery on their own.

    Another concern tied to the Switch 2 battery is the system’s habit of showing wrong power levels. Nintendo has proposed a method for owners to fix this irritation. Some players have voiced their frustration about the battery life being subpar, but this is probably not linked to hardware issues.

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    Battery Swelling in Switch 2 May Cause Bulging Consoles, Says Nintendo

     

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  • Pixel 7a Battery Swelling? Get a Free Replacement from Google

    Pixel 7a Battery Swelling? Get a Free Replacement from Google

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google’s Pixel 7a has a battery swelling issue, leading to an Extended Repair Program for affected users.
    2. Users can receive a one-time free battery replacement or compensation up to $456, depending on their location and device condition.
    3. The battery swelling can cause bulging back panels, loose covers, and quick battery drain, similar to issues seen in previous Pixel A series models.
    4. Eligibility for free replacement is available in select countries, with certain physical damages disqualifying devices from the program.
    5. Users can check their eligibility by entering their Pixel 7a’s IMEI on Google’s registration site, and the program does not extend the original warranty.

    Google’s Pixel 7a, which came out in 2023, is dealing with a battery swelling issue. Because of this, the company has started an Extended Repair Program. Users who are affected can either receive a one-time free battery replacement or possibly get up to $456 in compensation, depending on where they live and the condition of their device. This situation adds to a series of battery problems that have plagued Google’s Pixel A series, raising concerns about its safety and dependability.

    Acknowledgment of Battery Issues

    The Pixel 7a, popular in the mid-range market, is now under the spotlight as Google admits that some of its devices have “unexpected battery swelling.” This problem can lead to bulging back panels, loose covers, or quick battery drain. The issue was shared in a support article, and it is reminiscent of previous troubles with the Pixel A series—such as the Pixel 4a, which saw its battery life cut in half after an update, and the Pixel 9a, which experienced confirmed battery degradation after 200 cycles, according to Android Police.

    Eligibility for Replacement

    Users in the US, India, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, and Singapore can get a free battery replacement at designated walk-in repair locations, with mail-in options also available in the US and India, depending on stock. However, devices that have liquid damage, cracked screens, or other forms of physical damage may not be eligible, as per Google’s guidelines. For individuals outside these regions, like in Australia or EEA countries, there are “appeasement options” available: a $200 cash payment, a $300 discount for the Google Store, or up to $456 for in-warranty devices, which will be converted to the local currency.

    How to Check Eligibility

    To find out if they qualify, owners must input their Pixel 7a’s IMEI on Google’s registration site, followed by a physical check. This program, which was quietly announced on April 23, 2025, does not extend the original warranty, and only individual end-users are eligible. Discussions on Reddit and posts on X show user frustration but also some relief regarding Google’s actions. With the Pixel 9a priced at $499 on Amazon and closing the gap with flagship models, Google’s battery problems reveal a vulnerability in its otherwise impressive product range. If your Pixel 7a is showing signs of bulging, act quickly—this offer seems to be limited by stock.

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  • Apple to Pay $20M in Apple Watch Battery Swelling Lawsuit

    Apple to Pay $20M in Apple Watch Battery Swelling Lawsuit

    Apple has come to a deal regarding the lawsuit tied to battery swelling problems in some older Apple Watch versions. The tech giant has consented to disburse $20 million to resolve this class action lawsuit.

    Settlement Details

    If you own one of the earlier Apple Watch models, you may qualify for a share of the $20 million that the Cupertino company has decided to pay. The settlement revolves around the Apple Watch Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3. For those who might not know, these models experienced a battery issue that caused them to swell, which could damage the watch itself.

    Apple Watch Series 3

    Even though Apple has settled the lawsuit, the company maintains that it disagrees with the allegations made against them. They have chosen to settle “to avoid further litigation.” The payment amounts will differ based on how many people file claims. However, early Apple Watch users can expect to receive between $20 and $50.

    How to Claim

    If you would like more information, you can click here for a full breakdown of eligibility and important dates. Remember, users needed to have reported the battery issue to Apple in the U.S. between April 4, 2015, and February 6, 2024. The linked site also notes that “Settlement Class Members will receive a payment without needing to submit a claim form.” Once a claim is filed, eligible users will be notified through mail or email.

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