Google Pixel 6a - Google to Throttle Phones with Update. Offering $100 compensation.

FGR

Hi all

Just got an email from Google stating that my Google Pixel 6a phone is one of the models affected by an overheating issue they discovered recently. As a result they will be forcing an update on my phone next week which will severely limit my battery charge capacity. In exchange they're offering me $100 converted to euros or $150 towards the Google Store to upgrade my phone.

My warranty expired in May 2025 so pretty miffed this comes out just afterwards. Customer Support told me they won't offer a free repair in Ireland unlike other markets so I basically have to fork out for a new phone which, imo, doesn't feel exactly fair considering the fault is on their part.

Anyone else in the same boat. Anyone considering their options? Is it worth going down the sale of goods act route and demanding a repair/replacement?

The phone is in pristine condition and has google security support for another two years - not really impressed with this.

Thanks all.

FGR

Should note the phone cost me €450 in 2023.

halfpastneverr

I paid 350 for my 6A in 2022 in Argos. Phone is in great condition, no overheating, battery lasts all day etc. Fairly annoyed at this. Same happenned with my partners 4A. Forced update and ruined the battery, offted 49 quid cash or 100e google credit.

They really should be obliged to offer a replacement phone, rather than paltry cash or store credit. Will never buy another Google device anyway.

FGR

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123600190#Comment_123600190

It's frustrating as I bought the phone because of the benefit of its extended support until 2027.

I wouldn't mind so much if Google at least offered the battery replacement service in Ireland like they in other markets but they don't. ifixit are out of genuine batteries too so that rules out doing it myself.

daheff

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058418644/google-pixel-6a-google-to-throttle-phones-with-update-offering-100-compensation

regarding sale of goods act, no harm in sending them a letter outlining their responsibilities under said act. All it will cost you is some time and a little effort.

Akrasia

If they admit that its a fault with their phone then surely they are obliged to repair or replace.

I have a 7a, is that gonna be throttled next year as well? Extremely bad practice from google

ItHurtsWhenIP

A company I support has two 6a's - one bought from Google, but haven't had any notification yet of any issue. The other was bought from CEX, so doubt we will hear anything from them, but I'll ask the user to let me know if it suddenly slows down.

halfpastneverr

I've asked the CCPC for their input and will fire off a reg letter to Google regardless, requesting a repair or replacement and see what the response is. If no joy, €25 to see how I get on in the SCC. Feck them. €350 is a big chunk of money for me and I specifically bought a Pixel because of the promised longevity of the device with guaranteed OS and security updates. Then they pull this, offering derisory compo or a voucher to spend more money in their store, while not being able to use said voucher on any sale items. Pixel 8A is the cheapest phone there atm at €459. The €128 odd of the voucher won't make much dent in that.

wingnut

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123603501#Comment_123603501

They gave €400 cash compenstation to 7a owners because of a battery issue. You didn't even have to return the phone.

Akrasia

I didn't know about that

I've just submitted a case to see if I'm eligible