Google Pixel 6a

You should really get your Pixel 6a battery replaced, or get a new phone

Ben Schoon | Jul 28 2025 - 8:05 am PT

Pixel 6a owners are feeling the effects of the recent battery reduction update from Google, and while the phone is technically still usable on that update, users should still take action soon to fix their device, whether that means getting the battery replaced or getting a new phone altogether.

The Pixel 6a has been an excellent phone for those who purchased it, but issues with the batteries inside of some units have led to Google taking measures to ensure user safety. In some cases, these batteries can overheat and can be at risk of a fire, as has happened to a handful of users so far.

The most recent report of a Pixel 6a catching fire surfaced on Reddit over the weekend, with the user’s Pixel 6a overheating and catching fire while charging overnight. The user notes that their phone had already been updated with Google’s battery reduction. While Google’s mitigation does lessen the risk quite a bit, the batteries themselves still have issues, and it’s clear that users should take action.

This Pixel 6a reportedly caught fire after Google’s update. Image: u/footymanageraddict

Google’s options for fixing this problem boil down to a credit towards a new phone (whether cash or a store credit), or a free battery replacement. The latter is probably the best option for many, as the battery replacement is not only free, but breathes new life into the device. Users have reported that their battery life increases dramatically following the replacement. But if you were already considering a new device, replacing the phone is a good option as well. Between a $150 credit and a $75 trade-in value, the cost to upgrade from a Pixel 6a to a Pixel 9a comes out to around $275. You could also take the $100 cash payment and an $88 trade-in from Samsung to get a Galaxy A36 for just over $200.

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Do you still use a Pixel 6a?