Google has announced a mandatory software update for certain

Pixel 6a

phones to address a potential battery overheating risk. This update will introduce new battery management features designed to enhance user safety. The update, which will bring all Pixel 6a devices to Android 16, is scheduled to begin rolling out on July 8. While all Pixel 6a phones will receive the

Android 16 update

, only the specific Impacted Devices will get these new battery management features.

According to Google, Pixel 6a phones may experience performance, capacity or runtime degradation as they are used. Some batteries pose a risk of potential battery overheating which in turn is a risk to users. Google’s update aims to fix this. Google states that these new features will reduce battery capacity and charging performance on the affected devices after they reach the specified charge cycle threshold. Users may notice changes at different times, as these features will only activate once an Impacted Device reaches 400 charge cycles.To ensure customers have the best experience, Google is offering support options for users of these Impacted Devices. Eligibility for this support will depend on the country of purchase, location, and the device's warranty status, subject to Google's terms and conditions.

It's important to note that not all Pixel 6a devices are affected by this specific reduction in battery capacity and charging performance. If your device isn't impacted, its battery management features will remain unchanged, and it won't be eligible for support under this particular programme.

Starting July 8, the update will automatically download to all Pixel 6a phones. Once downloaded, your device will restart on its own to apply the new software.For phones identified by Google as "Impacted Devices," this update includes new features designed to prevent potential battery overheating. However, these specific battery changes won't activate right away. They will only kick in after your phone's battery reaches 400 charge cycles.You'll get a reminder notification on your "Impacted Device" when its battery reaches 375 cycles, letting you know the changes are coming soon.Things to remember:

If your Pixel 6a is one of the affected devices, you might be able to get a free battery replacement. You can head over to Google's registration page to find a battery replacement option nearby.Starting July 21, battery replacements will be available at walk-in repair centers in countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and India.Mail-in repair services for customers in the United States and India.Google expects to expand these services to Japan, France, other parts of Europe, and Australia soon. Keep in mind, battery replacements depend on your location's eligibility and available supplies. If batteries run out, don't worry—other support options will be offered. Check the registration page for full eligibility details.If a battery replacement isn't an option in your country, isn't convenient, or if you'd just prefer something else, you can also visit the registration page to claim other support options. These might include: