"Battery update from hell" to hit Google Pixel 6a on July 8, Google offers compensation

Just a few months ago, Google practically cut the battery capacity of the Pixel 4a in half via an update, and now the manufacturer is about to roll out a similar update for the Pixel 6a. This update was announced in mid-June, and Google has now confirmed further details on a corresponding support webpage. Most importantly, the search engine giant has unveiled the release date. The update will be automatically and mandatorily installed on affected Pixel 6a devices starting July 8. It's easy to tell if the update has been installed, as it will be rolled out alongside Android 16.

Ironically, Google calls the patch a "battery performance improvement update", but admits that the patch reduces both battery capacity and charging performance once the battery hits 400 charging cycles. The reason for this adjustment is that some Pixel 6a devices spontaneously caught fire, and the reduced battery voltage is intended to prevent overheating. Google emphasizes that this update does not affect all Pixel 6a smartphones, similar to the Pixel 4a. This probably depends on the battery supplier of the respective unit.

Google offers three compensation options

Similar to the Pixel 4a, Google offers affected Pixel 6a owners three options to be compensated for the shorter battery life. Starting July 21, customers can have the smartphone's battery replaced for free to regain full capacity. Alternatively, Google offers a discount code for the purchase of a new smartphone from the Google Store. Lastly, customers can also opt for a cash payment as compensation.

Google has not yet commented on the value of the discount code or the amount of this one-time payment. For reference, affected Pixel 4a users received a $100 voucher or a $50 payout. Users can check if their Google Pixel 6a is affected by visiting this website.