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Google to reduce Pixel 6a's battery life to prevent overheating

Google Pixel 6a devices are prone to overheating. The culprit that's causing the problem appears to be battery, here we go again.

This may sound very similar to an issue that affected Pixel 4a devices, for which Google offered free battery replacements. It had actually led to the device being recalled in Australia. Even the Pixel 7a has a battery swelling problem, for which Google announced an extended repair program and one free battery replacement.

It turns out the Pixel 6a does suffer from similar issues. Android Authority's Mishaal Rahman reports that there have been 4 separate incidents where the phone caught fire, and melted. After analyzing the source code of Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2, Rahman discovered that the Settings app is coded to display a battery health warning for Pixel 6a users. The message will appear after the device reaches 375 charge cycles, it warns the user that the “battery capacity and charging performance will be reduced” once it hits 400 cycles.

In a statement sent to Android Authority, Google confirmed that Pixel 6a phones will require a mandatory software update to reduce the risk of potential battery overheating. This update will enable some battery management features that will reduce the battery's capacity and performance, once it reaches 400 charge cycles. Google will contact impacted customers soon to educate them about the issue.

When the device is throttled, its performance will be affected. Google is advising users to replace the battery by visiting https://g.co/pixel/6abattery, though the web page in question isn't available yet. It is unclear whether the company will offer a free battery replacement for affected devices.

Users can manually check the status of their Pixel 6a by opening the Settings > Battery > Battery Health.

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