Latest news with #BatteryPerformanceProgramme
India Today
a day ago
- India Today
Pixel 6a users can claim $100 cash or $150 credit from Google under battery performance program
Google is now offering compensation to Pixel 6a users facing battery-related issues. As part of its new Battery Performance Programme, the company is giving customers the option to either get their phone battery replaced for free or claim a cash or store credit payout. The move comes after complaints of overheating and battery performance concerns linked to the Pixel prevent further battery-related problems, Google will push a mandatory Android 16 update to all Pixel 6a devices. This update is aimed at improving battery efficiency and reducing overheating risks. While free battery replacement at authorised centres was already available, Google has now added more support choices for users who prefer to move on from the to details shared by the company, affected users who don't want to go for a battery replacement can opt for a trade-in offer. Under this, Pixel 6a users can receive $100 (around Rs 8,500) as direct cash or choose to get $150 (approximately Rs 12,800) as a Google Store credit code. This store credit can be used towards buying a new Pixel phone. The final value in local currency will be based on the day's exchange rate, and Google has mentioned that cash payouts may not be available in all regions, depending on local rules. For handling payments, Google is working with Payoneer, a third-party financial platform. To process the money, users might need to share personal details like identification numbers, this will depend on the rules of the country the user is in. For example, users in the US may be asked to share their Social Security Number, while other regions may require alternate ID know if they are eligible, Pixel 6a users must visit a dedicated eligibility page set up by Google. They'll be required to enter their email address linked to the device and the IMEI number of the phone. In case someone is helping a family member or friend with the process, they can submit the details using another email ID, although Google has warned that it might ask for more information in some cases for eligibility is confirmed, users can go ahead and choose whether they want the free battery service or claim compensation. This move from Google gives users flexibility and support, especially those using older units or planning an upgrade. The combination of a required software update and hardware support shows that the company is taking battery issues on the Pixel 6a seriously while giving affected customers practical solutions.- Ends
Mint
2 days ago
- Mint
Pixel 6a to receive mandatory Android 16 update from July 8 amid battery safety fears
Google has officially announced a mandatory update to Android 16 for all Pixel 6a devices, as part of its newly launched Battery Performance Programme. The update, set to begin rolling out from 8 July, is aimed at addressing ongoing battery-related concerns which have plagued the handset in recent months. Until now, the Pixel 6a had been excluded from Android 16 eligibility, despite the update already being available across Pixel 6 to Pixel 9 models. However, Google is now making the update compulsory for Pixel 6a users in order to activate new safety measures that help mitigate potential risks associated with battery performance. According to a statement published on Google's support page, the update will specifically target devices flagged as 'Impacted Devices'. These units will receive the software update automatically. Once installed, the update will enable advanced battery management features designed to prevent overheating and possible damage. One of the major changes coming with the update is a limit on battery capacity and charging performance once the device reaches 400 full charge cycles. However, until this milestone is hit, the changes will remain dormant. Users of impacted devices will receive an alert once their handset approaches 375 charge cycles, reminding them of the impending changes. Post-update, they may notice slower charging speeds and temporary fluctuations in the battery-level indicator as the phone adjusts to the new parameters. The initiative follows a series of reported incidents involving the Pixel 6a. In one case earlier this year, a user shared images of a swollen battery causing the screen to lift from the frame. A few months later, a separate report emerged alleging that a Pixel 6a had exploded due to battery expansion. In light of these issues, Google is offering free repairs for devices enrolled in the Battery Performance Programme. Alternatively, affected users can opt for a cash reimbursement or a discount voucher to use on future hardware purchases through the Google Store.
