Pixel 4a Getting Update After 1.5 Years

The Google Pixel 4a received its final official software update in August 2023, marking the end of its guaranteed update period. (Google Support) Subsequently, in January 2025, Google released an unexpected update aimed at improving battery performance stability.

Google has determined that certain Pixel 4a phones require a software update to improve the stability of their battery’s performance. An automatic update to Android 13 will roll out to all Pixel 4a devices starting from 8 January 2025. For some devices (‘Impacted Devices’), the software update reduces available battery capacity and impacts charging performance. We want our customers to have the best possible experience with their products, so users of these Impacted Devices are eligible for an appeasement from Google. Not all Pixel 4a devices are impacted by the reduction in battery capacity and charging performance, therefore if your device is not impacted, the battery will perform the same as before and you will not be eligible for an appeasement. You can find out if your device is eligible here.

Changes coming to your device’s battery management

From 8 January 2025, Pixel 4a devices will receive an automatic software update to Android 13. After the software update is downloaded, your device will restart automatically to apply the update. For some devices (‘Impacted Devices’), the update includes new battery management features to improve the stability of your battery’s performance, so the battery may last for shorter periods between charges. Users of Impacted Devices may also notice other changes, like reduced charging performance or changes to how the battery-level indicator on your phone shows your battery capacity.

If you own a Pixel 4a, you can manually download the latest software update from 8 Jan 2025. Otherwise, the software update will be automatically downloaded to your device.

Not all Pixel 4a devices will experience these changes, but we want to help affected users in this situation. Impacted Devices are eligible for an appeasement. You can check your appeasement eligibility here. The software update does not impact any other Pixel phone models, such as Pixel 4a 5G.

Free battery replacement and other options for individual end-user owners of Impacted Devices

If your Pixel 4a is an Impacted Device, you may be eligible for a free battery replacement. You can visit our registration page to find a battery replacement option near you.

Battery replacement is available at walk-in repair centres in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore and India. Mail-in repair is also available for customers in the United States. Battery replacement is only available in eligible locations and while battery supplies last. For more details about eligibility, review criteria here.

If battery replacement is not convenient or you would like to explore other options, you can also visit our registration page to claim one of the other appeasement options:

• $50 USD (or local equivalent) payment.
• $100 USD (or local equivalent) Google hardware discount code applicable towards the purchase of another Pixel phone on the Google Store (as available).

Individual end users will have one year from the initial software release on 8 January 2025 to register and make a choice of one of the three appeasement options, which may vary by country. After 8 January 2026, these appeasement options will no longer be available. Said the sources.

For all other Terms and Conditions you can follow the official release here.

Also Read: Google Pixel 4a 4G in 2024: A Budget-Friendly Companion Standing the Test of Time

What’s Next for Pixel 4a Users?

For Pixel 4a users, the unexpected update serves as a reminder of the importance of post-update monitoring. While the device may no longer receive regular updates, users can still enjoy a secure and smooth experience with the options provided by Google.

As the Pixel 4a gracefully exits the stage, users can look forward to new innovations from Google’s Pixel lineup. Whether upgrading to a newer Pixel device or continuing to use the Pixel 4a with a fresh battery, users can remain confident in Google’s ongoing commitment to quality and support.

In conclusion, the January 2025 update for the Pixel 4a highlights both the challenges and the responsive measures tech companies must undertake to ensure user satisfaction. Google’s transparent and user-centric approach in handling the aftermath of the update sets a positive precedent for future device support and customer care.

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