Surprise update for Pixel 4a reduces battery life, but Google offers compensation
What we know
On 8 January 2025, Google unexpectedly started updating Pixel 4a smartphones, which hadn't been updated since 2023. The update information states that it includes new charge management features to improve the stability of your battery, so it can last for shorter periods between charges. Not all devices will experience reduced battery life, but if you do, you can contact Pixel Support to receive compensation.
Compensation programme: Google is offering owners of affected devices a free battery replacement, $50 in compensation, or $100 off the purchase of a new Pixel smartphone. You can check if your device is eligible for the programme by entering the IMEI on a special support page.
This situation is reminiscent of Apple's "batterygate" in 2017, when the company reduced the performance of iPhones without notifying users to prevent sudden shutdowns, which led to significant legal consequences. Unlike Apple, Google openly reports the problem and offers compensation options.
Source: www.theverge.com
