Summary of programme
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 on 8 January 2025. For some devices ('Impacted Devices'), the software update reduces available battery capacity and impacts charging performance. Not all Pixel 4a devices are impacted by the reduction in battery capacity and charging performance. Therefore, if your device was not impacted, the battery will perform the same as before the software update.
Background
Pixel phones, like other smartphones on the market, use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries – and these batteries are consumable components that may experience performance, capacity or runtime degradation as they are used. That's why we recommend that you consider replacing your battery if you notice a decrease in your battery's capacity or runtime.
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 January 2025. Otherwise, the software update will be automatically downloaded to your device when the software is released and your device is charged and connected to the Internet.
Not all Pixel 4a devices will experience these changes. The software update does not impact any other Pixel phone models, such as Pixel 4a 5G.
Battery replacement and other options for individual end-user owners of Impacted Devices
8 January 2026 update: Consistent with the Terms and Conditions announced on 8 January 2025, free-of-charge battery replacement and other options are no longer available starting on 8 January 2026. Should you have any safety concerns about your Pixel 4a, please contact customer support.
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. Check your warranty to determine what costs will apply.
You may have statutory rights available to you under laws of the country where you purchased the device. If available to you, you may alternatively make a claim pursuant to those.
Terms and Conditions
Individual end users had 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. As of 8 January 2026, these appeasement options are no longer available.
This Pixel 4a Battery Performance Programme provides rights separate to rights provided to you by statutory law in the country where you purchased the device. Those statutory rights are in addition to, and not instead of or restricted by, this programme.
Additional details regarding this programme are provided in the frequently asked questions below.
Frequently asked questions
What should I expect if my Pixel 4a battery has been impacted? Can I continue to use my Pixel 4a?
Yes, you can continue to use your Pixel 4a as before. After the software update is applied, you will experience improved stability of battery performance, but battery capacity will be reduced, which may affect runtime. You may also notice other changes, like reduced charging performance or changes to how the battery-level indicator on your phone shows your battery capacity.
How do I know if I have a Pixel 4a?
Find your phone model in Settings > About phone > Model. Remember that not all Pixel 4a devices are impacted by the battery health features and eligible for appeasement.
How do I claim my appeasement?
The appeasement registration for individual end users ended on 8 January 2026.
If you have registered for the appeasement prior to 8 January 2026, please note that it may take up to one week to receive verification that your device is eligible for appeasement and up to three weeks for your appeasement request to be processed. We may request additional information to verify your device or registration.
How do I obtain a battery replacement?
If you choose to request a battery replacement, eligible Pixel 4a devices can be taken to walk-in repair centres in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Singapore and India. We recommend that you contact the walk-in repair location ahead of time and schedule an appointment. If you are in the United States, mail-in repair may also be available. We will send you a special box for mail-in repair if your device qualifies. Check your warranty to determine what costs will apply.
About the battery replacement programme
Important: We will provide a cost estimate before starting repairs. If your device shows out-of-warranty damage – such as a cracked screen, liquid damage or other physical impact – additional fees may apply. You then have the option to proceed with the repair or have your device returned to you.
Battery replacement doesn't extend the standard warranty coverage of your Pixel 4a. Your warranty will expire on the date it was originally set to expire, regardless of the battery replacement.
Tip: Before you bring in your phone or mail it in for repair, back up your data.
My Pixel 4a is working normally. Do I need to stop using it?
You do not need to stop using your Pixel 4a. Your device will receive the software update from 8 January 2025 or you can manually download the update.
I haven't had any issues with my Pixel 4a. Can I take it on a plane or put it in my checked luggage?
Follow local transportation guidance as usual. In general, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are allowed in carry-on baggage but are prohibited from checked luggage. Please see the FAA's PackSafe for Passengers web page for more information.
Can I purchase a new Pixel 4a?
Google is no longer selling Pixel 4a, but you can review our current Pixel portfolio here.
How do I dispose of my Pixel 4a if I can't return it?
Dispose of your phone, battery and any accessories in accordance with local regulations. Don't dispose of them in normal household waste. Improper disposal may lead to fire, explosion and/or other hazards. Don't open, crush, heat above 45°C (113°F) or incinerate. For more information on recycling your phone, visit g.co/pixel/recycle.
Is it safe to charge my Pixel 4a?
Yes, you can continue to charge your Pixel 4a as before. As with all devices, use best practices for battery health and charging. Place your device in a well-ventilated area when charging or in use. You can find additional safety-related information here or on your Pixel 4a at Settings > About phone > Safety and regulatory manual.