Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
Pixels are among the many finest Android telephones cash should buy, but when there’s one problem that retains coming again to hang-out them, it’s battery security.
We’ve seen battery overheating issues take down the Pixel 4a. The Pixel 6a took it additional, and in a single alarming case, it reportedly melted fully. Extra lately, Google acknowledged {that a} batch of Pixel 7a items was experiencing “sudden” battery swelling.
In response, Google pushes out software program updates that scale back most charging capability and velocity, and gives replacements or compensation in some instances. However these options really feel extra like placing a Band-Assist over an issue that requires a extra everlasting repair, particularly when swollen batteries pose a severe security danger and Pixel telephones are anticipated to last more than ever, due to Google’s prolonged replace commitments.
So, we determined to ask our readers — Are battery considerations placing you off Pixel telephones? Given the protection implications, you’d anticipate the reply to be a powerful “sure,” however curiously, the outcomes of the survey carried out on our web site turned out to be deeply divided.
Are battery considerations placing you off the Pixel?
We obtained roughly 3,000 votes in our survey asking folks if battery security or the shortage of it could put them off Pixel telephones. 46% of the respondents stated that they’re certainly involved about Pixel battery security. On the flip aspect, a virtually equal 44% stated they’re not too apprehensive and nonetheless imagine Pixels are stable telephones regardless of recurring points. The remaining 10% have been undecided.
That’s a surprisingly shut break up, and the feedback gave us a greater sense of the hesitation and belief Pixel customers (and potential consumers) really feel proper now.
What readers are saying
Some survey takers voiced severe considerations based mostly on their private expertise. One consumer shared that their Pixel 6a was overheating regardless of attempting a number of chargers, together with Google’s official equipment. “I’m unsure what to do and fear about leaving it plugged in for too lengthy,” they stated.
One other reader pointed to a number of incidents amongst their pals, together with a Pixel 7 that caught on hearth. “This appears an increasing number of like actual points, and that corners that may’t be minimize have been minimize,” they commented.
Some feedback additionally confirmed indicators of declining loyalty in direction of the Pixel model. A Pixel 6a proprietor famous, “For the time being, my 6a is getting heat, however no different points. I’m not going to get one other Pixel, although, within the subsequent 12 months or so. I’ll go searching and see what else is accessible. I’m disillusioned that they nerfed my cellphone.”
Pixel battery points are clearly not common, however they’re additionally not uncommon sufficient to disregard.
That stated, loads of respondents additionally defended Pixel telephones. One consumer remarked, “I’ve not had a single problem ever and have owned each Nexus/Pixel launched,” whereas one other stated, “I by no means ever had a Pixel downside moreover a number of dumb issues, and it’s most likely my error.” Clearly, not all Pixel customers are encountering battery-related troubles, and plenty of are sticking by the model.
In the meantime, some readers additionally argued that battery points aren’t distinctive to Google. “Had two Pixel 7as and now a Pixel 9a. No points,” a consumer famous. “Isn’t this simply within the nature of what are fairly risky elements? Can occur to any lithium battery if not handled appropriately.”
The underside line and what we collect from the survey outcomes is that Pixel battery points are clearly not common, however they’re additionally not uncommon sufficient to disregard. Some customers have had nice experiences with Google’s telephones, whereas others are apprehensive about or experiencing overheating, swelling, and even harmful failures. That stated, one factor is evident — for an organization that now guarantees seven years of updates, Google must do greater than patch issues with software program.
