The new update for Google's Pixel 4A will reduce battery life for some users.
At least we're not facing another case of 'failed batteries.'
Google has begun rolling out an unexpected update for the Pixel 4A phones this week. According to information from relevant sources, the company reached out via email to device owners to inform them that this update is intended to improve battery performance stability, although it warns that battery life may be reduced after installation.
In a new help page titled "Pixel 4a Battery Performance Program," Google mentions that it has detected issues in "some" Pixel 4A phones. Starting January 8, 2025, these devices will receive an automatic software update to Android 13. Once the update is downloaded, the device will automatically restart to implement it. For certain models, referred to as "Affected Devices," this update incorporates new battery management features aimed at enhancing battery performance stability, which could result in shorter charging times.
Users of the Affected Devices may also experience other changes, such as reduced charging performance or modifications in how the battery level indicator displays available capacity. Google has indicated that it wants its customers to have the best possible experience, so those who own affected devices will have the option to receive compensation. Not all Pixel 4A devices are affected by the reduction in battery capacity and charging performance, so if your device is not experiencing issues, it will operate the same as before and will not be eligible for this compensation.
In addition to experiencing reduced battery life, the update could involve "reduced charging performance" or changes in how the battery capacity is displayed on the phone. Although Google has not provided specific details about the causes of the problem, the situation recalls the controversy known as "batterygate" involving Apple in 2017, when the company admitted that its software slowed down iPhones with aging batteries to prevent unexpected shutdowns, without adequately informing users about the performance reduction. In this case, Google is offering owners of affected 4A devices several compensation options: they can choose between a free battery replacement, a $50 payment, or a $100 credit to purchase a new Pixel phone from its online store. 4A owners can enter their IMEI number on the relevant page to check if their device is affected. Google has not immediately responded to questions about why the Pixel 4A, which has not received updates since late 2023, requires attention at this time.
