Is Google slowing down your Pixel for its own good?
Google has released its July software update for Pixel phones, initiating the Battery Performance Program for the Pixel 6a, which may affect its battery voltage. This mandatory automatic software update, confirmed by Google, aims to mitigate potential battery overheating risks by gradually lowering the battery’s maximum voltage. The program’s features will activate upon reaching 400 charge cycles, and only “Impacted Devices” will receive the battery management features, according to Google.
The update specifically targets the Pixel 6a, commencing a process first noted when it was discovered Google could enable Battery Health Assistance to reduce maximum voltage in stages. Google previously stated its intention to issue “a mandatory automatic software update to Android 16” for the Pixel 6a through a Battery Performance Program support page. The July update represents the initial phase of this rollout.
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Not all Pixel 6a owners will immediately observe changes to their device’s battery life. Google clarifies that the management features will only be applied to “Impacted Devices” and will become active once a device has accumulated 400 charge cycles. Users can verify their device’s eligibility on Google’s dedicated support page. In addition to the battery management initiation, July’s software update includes other fixes. These entail a display and graphics improvement to enhance smoother visual experiences in applications such as Android Auto, alongside a Wi-Fi fix designed to improve connectivity stability and performance under certain conditions.