A new incident involving a Pixel 6A has been reported, with the phone catching fire after users installed a recent battery performance update from Google. This update was meant to address previous overheating challenges, according to findings by Android Authority. A Reddit post detailed how one user awoke to a “horrible smell and a loud noise”, only to find their device ablaze while it was charging on their nightstand.
The user, identified as u/footymanageraddict, reported that the Pixel 6A was connected to a 45W charger intended for a Steam Deck at the time of the incident, which led to significant damage, including a melted screen and case. They stated, “The phone was sitting less than 40 cms away from my head. Sheets caught on fire. My air conditioning unit had surface damage from the flames. My throat hurt throughout the day from the fumes I inhaled.”
At this time, Google has not responded to inquiries for comments regarding this incident.
Earlier this year, several reports of the Pixel 6A catching fire prompted Google to implement a software update aimed at reducing battery capacity and charging speed after 400 charge cycles. In addition, the tech giant began providing free battery replacements for eligible devices. The user involved in this incident mentioned that they installed the mandatory update but did not take advantage of the battery replacement due to a lack of walk-in options in their country, relying instead on mailing their device.
According to Android Authority, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission issued a warning last week stating that devices like the Pixel 6A may have an “overheating battery that could pose a risk of fire and/or burns to a user,” and highlighted that there have been instances leading to serious burn injuries.
