Ahead Of Google Pixel 9a Launch, Google Pixel 4a Recalled Due To Battery Overheating Risk

With barely a week to go for the Google Pixel 9a launch and reports are indicating a serious issue with an older Pixel. Reports have put the Google Pixel 9a release date as March 19. Google Pixel 4a recall note has been issued by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission. The regulatory agency cited a significant battery overheating risk that could lead to fire hazard. The Google Pixel 4a battery issue reportedly emerged after an update, which was abruptly rolled out recently.

The Google Pixel 4a upgrade announcement stated, “For some devices (impacted devices), the update includes new battery management features to improve the stability of your battery’s performance, so the battery may last for shorter periods between charges. Users of impacted devices may also notice other changes, like reduced charging performance or changes to how the battery-level indicator on your phone shows your battery capacity.”

According to a report in Android Authority, Google’s wording was vague, providing no clear indication of the severity of the issue. 

Many users who installed the update reportedly found their devices shutting down within minutes of use.

Even more worryingly, Google also removed all previous software updates for the Pixel 4a from its website, leaving users with no way to revert to an earlier version.

Google Pixel 9a battery (expected) vs Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a:

1. Google Pixel 9a battery 5,100mAh

2. Google Pixel 8a battery 4,492mAh

3. Google Pixel 7a battery: 4385mAh

The Google Battery Performance Program update also reduced battery efficiency for many users, according to the report in Android Authority. The outlet said that Google had reduced the maximum voltage of Pixel 4a batteries manufactured by supplier Lishen (LSN), cutting it from 4.45V to 3.95V. This adjustment reduced the battery’s effective charging capacity considerably.

The Google Pixel 4a recall notice by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission states, “An automatic firmware update to Android 13 was rolled out to Pixel 4a devices in Australia on 8 January 2025. The firmware update provides new battery management features to mitigate the risk of overheating. An overheating battery could pose a risk of fire and/or burns to a user.”

Google’s original announcement had omitted any reference to overheating or the possibility of fire hazards, according to the regulatory body.

Consumers in Australia are now being advised to verify whether their Pixel 4a has received the firmware update. The recall notice also asks users to check if their device is impacted and, if so, request assistance from Google.

Not all Google Pixel 4a units are affected, but those with the faulty battery are now considered a potential fire risk.