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Battery defects that causes fires can never be completely ruled out. Certain smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy Note7 or the Google Pixel 4a and Pixel 6a, are disproportionately affected by such problems. While Samsung rendered the Galaxy Note7 unusable (article in German only) with an update, Google is attempting to remedy the situation by reducing the battery voltage.
This step significantly reduces the battery life of affected smartphones and also slows down the charging process. Conversely, the batteries should no longer overheat, thereby reducing the risk of fires. However, one patch alone is apparently not enough to completely eliminate this risk. At least one user has now reported on Reddit how a Pixel 6a caught fire after installing the latest battery update.
The user was awakened by a loud noise and a strong smell, only to find a burning Pixel 6a that had been charging on his nightstand. To extinguish the device, he threw it by its charging cable onto the tile floor. The bed sheets are said to have caught on fire, while the smoke inhaled is said to have caused him throat pain afterwards.
Google is yet to inform users that the Pixel 6a still poses a fire risk despite the battery update. Anyone who owns one of the affected devices and wishes to continue using it should consider having the battery replaced. Currently, Google offers free battery replacements provided the device has one of the affected batteries.
Reddit