Google Pixel 6a Update Sparks Outrage After Battery Throttling
- tech360.tv
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
Google Pixel 6a users are expressing frustration after a recent mandatory update significantly reduced battery performance, with some claiming their phones have become unusable.
The update, rolled out on July 8, was intended to address overheating issues that had reportedly caused fires in some Pixel 6a devices. However, many users say the fix has rendered their phones inoperable.
The update throttles battery capacity once the phone reaches 400 charge cycles or if it is flagged as affected by the overheating issue. Google is offering free battery replacements, discounts on new Pixel phones, or cash compensation, depending on the user’s location.
On Reddit, Pixel 6a owners voiced their anger. One user wrote, “It killed my battery, now I have to get a new phone.” Another said, “Google killed my 6A. Never had any issues with it, woke up to it refusing to charge.”
Some users have opted to take the compensation and switch brands. “Went for the $100 cash payment and moved to another phone,” one commenter said. Others remain sceptical but are giving Google another chance.
The Pixel 6a is not the first Google phone to face battery-related issues. The Pixel 4a experienced similar overheating problems, and the company responded with a battery-throttling update. Pixel 7a users also reported swollen batteries in 2024.
In each case, Google offered free battery replacements or financial compensation. However, repeated issues have led to growing distrust among users.
One Reddit user questioned the value of Google’s seven-year software support promise, noting that it means little if a mandatory update can drastically reduce a phone’s functionality.
For those still interested in staying with Google, the company is offering USD 150 in store credit or USD 100 in cash for affected Pixel 6a users. These offers can be combined with trade-in deals, although current trade-in values are low.
Last month, Google U.K. offered up to GBP 384 (USD 512.46) for the Pixel 6a, but that promotion has ended. Future trade-in deals are expected with the upcoming Pixel 10 launch.
Google’s July 8 update throttles Pixel 6a batteries to prevent overheating
Users report phones becoming unusable after the update
Google offers free battery replacements, discounts, or cash compensation
Source: FORBES
