Google has announced a program concerning certain Pixel 7a units that may experience unexpected battery swelling. This initiative aims to provide a resolution for customers with affected devices.
Some Pixel 7a devices, identified as ‘Impacted Devices,’ may qualify for a battery replacement repair at no cost or receive an alternative form of appeasement from Google. This comes after Google announced a battery replacement program for the Pixel 4a units earlier this year, experiencing reduced battery capacity and charging performance issues.
The available options are contingent upon the user’s country and the device’s warranty status. Eligibility and the specific options provided are subject to defined terms and conditions.
It is specified that not all Pixel 7a devices are affected by the unexpected battery swelling issue. Consequently, devices not identified as impacted are not eligible for repair or other options under this particular program.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms associated with battery swelling in Pixel 7a devices may include:
- Visible swelling: The device might appear thicker than its normal profile, or the back cover may exhibit a bulge.
- Phone cover separation: Gaps or openings along the edges of the phone may be present, indicating the back cover is bulging or separating from the device body.
- Abnormal battery behavior: The phone’s battery may drain considerably faster than is typical, even with limited usage, or the device may fail to charge.
A battery replacement at no charge is available for individual end-user owners of devices identified as impacted.
It is noted that if a Pixel 7a device presents other forms of damage, such as damage from liquid exposure, contact with sharp objects, or the result of excessive force, it may not be eligible for a battery replacement without charge under this program.
Eligible and impacted Pixel 7a devices are entitled to one battery replacement at no charge through this program. A battery replacement under this program does not extend the original standard warranty coverage of the Pixel 7a. The warranty period will conclude on its initially scheduled date, irrespective of the battery replacement.
The option for battery replacement is available only in designated locations and is dependent on the availability of battery supplies. Walk-in repair centers offering battery replacement are located in the following regions:
- United States (Mail-in repair option is also available)
- India (Mail-in repair option is also available)
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Japan
- Singapore
Appeasement options for devices that are out of warranty (these options are not available in India and the United States, where both mail-in and walk-in repairs are offered) include:
- A payment of $200 USD, converted to the local currency equivalent.
- A Google hardware discount code valued at $300 USD, converted to the local currency equivalent. This code is applicable towards the purchase of another Pixel phone from the Google Store, subject to availability.
Appeasement options for devices that are under warranty (these options are not available in India and the United States, where both mail-in and walk-in repairs are offered) include:
- A payment of $456 USD, converted to the local currency equivalent.
Checking Eligibility and Next Steps
Users who suspect their Pixel 7a is impacted by battery swelling should visit the designated Google registration page to check their device’s eligibility and review the specific options available to them.