Google has announced that some units of the Pixel 7a may suffer from unexpected battery swelling, which can lead to diminished battery life and potential security concerns. To remedy this issue, the company is providing free battery replacements for eligible devices.
The criteria for eligibility differ by country, and users in certain regions can also choose from alternative compensation options, such as a one-time payment of $200 or a $300 credit for the Google Store. Previously, Google encountered battery-related issues with its Pixel devices, notably at the beginning of the year when it released an update for the Pixel 4a that intended to stabilize battery performance.
Unfortunately, that update inadvertently reduced the battery capacity for affected users, resulting in diminished battery life. Google subsequently offered free replacements to those impacted.
Now, the focus has shifted to the Pixel 7a, leading to the launch of an Extended Repair Program for the potentially affected units. According to Google’s support page, some Pixel 7a devices could unexpectedly swell.
To participate in the free battery replacement program, users must input their phone’s IMEI number and follow the instructions provided. It’s essential to assess the phone’s physical condition, as heavily damaged or water-exposed devices may not qualify for a free replacement.
Users can identify if their Pixel 7a is eligible for the program by checking for specific symptoms such as visible swelling, bulging phone covers, or rapid battery drain. In the US, India, Canada, the UK, Germany, Japan, and Singapore, walk-in repair options are available.
However, for regions like Australia, Malaysia, Taiwan, EEA countries, and Switzerland, users will need to explore other alternatives. Those with warranty coverage who cannot access mail-in or walk-in repairs may qualify for a one-time payment of $456, although this option is unavailable in the US and India.
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