Software upgrades typically bring about bug patches or desirable new features, but one future Google Pixel 6a update might actually make your phone worse.
Google has declared that certain Pixel 6a models will be subject to a forced update that “will reduce battery capacity and charging performance” once the phone has completed 400 charging cycles. Therefore, even after you download the update, these changes won’t take effect if your phone hasn’t reached 400 charging cycles.
There are valid reasons for these adjustments, though, as Google states that they would “reduce the risk of potential battery overheating which could pose a risk to users.” Given the numerous instances of Pixel 6a units catching fire, we know how that can turn out.
Users won’t particularly like a battery that charges more slowly and requires charging more frequently than it used to.
At the very least, you will receive some Android 16 goodies along with your battery degradation when this update, which is part of Android 16, begins rolling out on July 8.
It’s interesting to note that these new battery management “features” will only be available on select Pixel 6a models. Although the reason for this is unknown—possibly Google utilized different batteries in specific phone models—you may check this support page to see whether yours is impacted.
If so, you won’t have to accept a battery decrease; you’ll have other choices.
Topics #Pixel 6a Update
