Google Pixel 4a's Battery Downgrade Update Will Reach You, Whether You Want It Or Not – Android Headlines

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Android Headlines / Android News / Google Forces Pixel 4a’s Controversial Battery Update to All Users
In January, Google released a battery update for the Pixel 4a. This firmware installs automatically, and since the company removed the previous versions, there was no way to revert back. However, some users had managed to avoid this update. Now, Google has started to forcibly install the update on devices that had previously avoided it, without users’ permission.
Google’s dark history with batteries has resurfaced once again. Serious issues, such as some Pixel 6a models melting while charging, have raised questions in the past. A significant development has now emerged regarding the battery update released for the Pixel 4a models at the beginning of the year, which sparked widespread criticism.
Google discovered that Pixel 4a models needed an update to improve battery performance. The company released a battery-focused update in January to address this issue. It also promised free battery replacements and various other solutions to users who installed the update at the time.
Most users grabbed the update, expecting it to improve battery performance. However, the results showed us exactly the opposite. Following the patch, many users reported that their Pixel 4a’s battery performance worsened even more. Some even reported that their devices lasted only a few hours on a single charge and took much longer to recharge.
Because the update was installed automatically and the brand removed older software builds, users had no way to revert. Fortunately, some users managed to avoid the patch at the time.
A development has occurred in the last 48 hours that is causing considerable distress to users. The workarounds that worked for a while have now lost their effectiveness, and Google has begun forcing devices to install the battery patch.
There have been numerous posts on forums like Reddit about how even methods like developer options to block automatic updates are not working and how patches are being forced onto users without their control.
While it’s annoying that Google installed the update without users’ consent, there’s a strong reason behind it. The company’s insistence on pushing out this version is allegedly due to concerns about battery overheating and catching fire.
It seems legit for the brand to make a similar decision for the Pixel 4a models, especially given the meltdown issues experienced with the Pixel 6a. However, users believe there’s been a serious lack of communication here. Finally, whether forced or not, users will be able to take advantage of Google’s free battery replacements and other solutions.
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Tunahan has been a professional writer for over five years and has a deep passion for all things tech, with a particular focus on Android. He’s also a dedicated gaming enthusiast.
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