Android 16 Beta Clarifies Pixel’s Charging Limit Set to 80% Feature

Android 16 Beta 3 introduces significant updates to the Charging optimization section, clarifying that Pixel devices will periodically exceed the 80% charge limit every one to two weeks. This revised messaging represents a notable improvement over Android 15, which described the phone’s behavior as “occasionally” exceeding the limit. In this latest beta version, Google is expected to relocate the Charging optimization feature to a newly introduced Battery health menu. Launched this week, Android 16 Beta 3 includes various visual and performance enhancements while also achieving platform stability.

This positions the update for an earlier than anticipated final release. The beta has already revealed two other battery-related updates, and the recent modifications contribute to this trend. The updated text under the “Limit to 80%” option in the Charging optimization settings now specifies that the device will charge to full capacity “once every one to two weeks to maintain battery level reporting accuracy.” This clarity aims to reduce confusion for users when their devices exceed the 80% limit, which could alleviate anxiety similar to that experienced after the release of Android 15 QPR2.

While the timeline of one to two weeks is not highly specific, it is an improvement over the vague description provided in Android 15. Additionally, accessing the Charging optimization page will now require an extra tap since it is integrated within the Battery health menu. Though not available on all Pixel devices yet, the Battery health page aims to empower users to monitor their battery’s health more effectively, allowing for timely replacements when needed. Google is also introducing revised status bar icons in Android 16 Beta 3.

These icons will include color coding for various battery states, such as red for low battery and green for charging. However, these features are currently disabled by default and will need adjustment to be visible. Industry expert Mishaal Rahman notes that these indicators are unlikely to be included in the initial Android 16 release and may instead appear in upcoming quarterly updates or with Android 17.