The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a product safety warning regarding potential overheating issues with Google Pixel 6a phones. The ACCC published a product recall notice on July 25, 2025, cautioning that the batteries in some Pixel 6a devices may overheat, posing a risk of fire and burns to users.

The Overheating Issue

The ACCC's warning highlights that the overheating battery could lead to fire outbreaks and serious burn injuries. Incidents have already occurred resulting in burn injuries. The issue is related to the battery management system in specific Pixel 6a models, particularly those in Chalk, Sage, or Charcoal colors sold between June 16, 2022, and April 10, 2025. The risk of overheating reportedly increases after the phone has gone through approximately 400 complete battery cycles (charging from 0% to 100% and then using the full charge).

Google's Response: Software Update

In response to the reported overheating incidents, Google rolled out an automatic firmware update to Android 16 for Pixel 6a devices in Australia on July 8, 2025. Google states that this update provides new battery management features designed to mitigate the risk of overheating. The ACCC has clarified that consumers do not need to return their devices because of this issue.

For devices affected by the issue, the new battery management system will be activated once the device receives the firmware update and reaches 400 battery cycles. If a device is not impacted, the firmware update will not affect battery management, and the device will perform as before.

Concerns Remain

Despite the release of the software update, some users have reported incidents of Pixel 6a devices catching fire even after the update was installed. One Reddit user reported that their phone caught fire while charging overnight, despite having installed Google's battery reduction update. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the update in fully resolving the overheating issue.

What Users Should Do

Pixel 6a owners, especially those in Australia who purchased their phones between June 2022 and April 2025, should take the following steps:

1. Check for Updates: Ensure that their device has received the Android 16 firmware update. This can be done by going to the phone's settings, tapping on 'System', then 'System update'.
2. Monitor Device: Keep an eye on the device's temperature, especially while charging. If the phone gets unusually hot, unplug it and allow it to cool down.
3. Consider Battery Replacement: Contact an authorized service center to inquire about a free battery replacement. Some users have reported significantly improved battery life after a replacement.
4. Contact Google Support: Submit a request to find out if their device is impacted.
5. Exercise Consumer Rights: Consumers may exercise their rights to a remedy in accordance with the consumer guarantees , which may, in certain circumstances, entitle them to a refund or replacement.

Google's Battery Performance Program

Google has also implemented a "Battery Performance Program" update, which reduces the risk of potential battery overheating. This program kicks in around 400 full battery recharge cycles, reducing battery capacity and charging performance. Google offers options for fixing this problem, including a credit toward a new phone or a free battery replacement.

General Safety Advice

All users should adhere to general safety guidelines for handling and charging their phones:

• Avoid using damaged cables or power adapters.
• Do not charge the phone when moisture is present.
• Ensure that the power adapter and phone are well-ventilated when in use or charging.
• Avoid charging the device in direct sunlight or on soft surfaces like sofas or beds.