[p]Just last month, an Australian Pixel 6a owner woke at 4am to the terrifying sound of their phone "screaming its overheating noise" before witnessing flames shooting from the device as it sat charging less than 40 centimetres from their head. The fire quickly spread to their bedsheets, filling the room with toxic smoke and leaving them with throat irritation that lasted all day.[/p][p]This wasn't an isolated incident. It's the latest chapter in a troubling pattern that's prompted Google to issue mandatory software updates and Australian safety regulators to step in with urgent warnings about an overheating battery that could pose a risk of fire and/or burns to a user, with incidents having occurred resulting in serious burn injuries [1].[/p][toc][/toc][h3]The Pixel 6a Problem Explained[/h3][p]Google has determined that certain Pixel 6a phones require a mandatory software update to reduce the risk of potential battery overheating. This update enables important battery management features that will reduce battery capacity and charging performance on affected devices, but only after the battery reaches 400 charge cycles [2].[/p][p]Affected phones include those in Chalk, Sage and Charcoal colours sold between 16 June 2022 and 10 April 2025. Starting 8 July 2025, Pixel 6a devices automatically received a mandatory software update to Android 16. All devices get the update, but only affected handsets receive the new battery management feature [3][4].[/p][p]Importantly, this "nerf" doesn't kick in for everyone right away. The special restrictions activate only for impacted devices that have completed 400 charge cycles [5][6]. Until then, your phone works normally, even with the update installed.[/p][blockquotewrap][blockquotecontent]People often place their charging phones on flammable surfaces, and this traps heat. In some cases, the phone or charger can reach dangerous temperatures, igniting a fire.[/blockquotecontent][blockquoteauthor]Mark Taylor, firefighter and safety expert[/blockquoteauthor][/blockquotewrap][h3]A Troubling Pattern Emerges[/h3][p]What makes this particularly concerning is that the Pixel 6a is just the latest in a series of battery problems plaguing Google's affordable A-series phones. Battery-related incidents have cropped up in several models, including battery swelling in the Pixel 7a and overheating risks in the Pixel 4a, prompting Google to offer free battery replacements for 7a users with swollen batteries [7][8][9].[/p][p]The Pixel 4a's situation was so severe that Google published an update which halved the smartphone's battery life, and the release of the Pixel 9a was delayed because of unspecified "component quality" issues.[/p][scope][scopetitle]Key Takeaways[/scopetitle][scopelistwrap][scopelist]Check if your Pixel 6a is affected at https://g.co/pixel/6abattery[/scopelist][scopelist]Ensure your phone has received the Android 16 update[/scopelist][scopelist]If affected, you may be eligible for free battery replacement or compensation[/scopelist][scopelist]Never charge your phone under pillows, on beds, or in poorly ventilated areas[/scopelist][scopelist]Contact Product Safety Australia (1800 803 772) if you experience overheating[/scopelist][/scopelistwrap][/scope][h3]The Real-World Consequences[/h3][p]The documented incidents make for sobering reading. One recent case involved a Google Pixel 6a from 2022 that caught fire while charging on a bedside table, with the phone less than 40 centimetres from the user's head before exploding with a loud noise. The fire quickly spread to ignite the bed sheets, filling the room with smoke [10][11].[/p][p]Over recent months, there have been at least four separate cases of Pixel 6a fires, with users sharing shocking photos of their melted handsets online [12].[/p][h3]What Compensation Is Available?[/h3][p]Google isn't leaving affected users empty-handed. If your phone is impacted, you can visit Google's support page to claim compensation options such as cash payments or Google Store discount codes applicable towards another Pixel purchase [13].[/p][p]Australian users have reported offers of US$100 cash or US$150 Google Store discounts, with some in-warranty owners receiving up to US$452 [14][15]. Battery replacement is expected to become available in Australia soon, though the exact date remains unspecified [16][17].[/p][infobox][infoboxheader]Your Australian Consumer Rights[/infoboxheader][infoboxcontent]Under Australian Consumer Law, you have guaranteed rights when products don't meet safety standards.[/infoboxcontent][infoboxcontent]If your Pixel 6a has overheating issues, you may be entitled to:[/infoboxcontent][infoboxcontent]- A repair, replacement, or refund from the retailer[/infoboxcontent][infoboxcontent]- Compensation for any damage caused[/infoboxcontent][infoboxcontent]- Support through Google's Battery Performance Program[/infoboxcontent][infoboxcontent]Contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502 if retailers don't honour these rights.[/infoboxcontent][/infobox][h3]The Bedroom Charging Danger[/h3][p]Pixel 6a incidents shine a spotlight on a broader safety risk: older adults often keep their phones by the bed for emergencies. But charging a phone in bed can be very dangerous. It should always be charged on a hard, well-ventilated surface.[/p][p]Overcharging is a leading cause of lithium-ion battery fires. While modern phones have safeguards against overcharging, these systems can fail, and faults increase risk [18][19].[/p][p]Fire safety experts warn especially about placing phones on soft, flammable materials like bedside tables made of wood or laminate [20]. If you need your phone nearby for emergencies at night, charge it safely on a cleared, hard surface and unplug it as soon as it's topped up [21][22].[/p][h3]Smartphone Fire Safety Tips for Seniors[/h3]

• Charging location: Charge your phone in a cool, ventilated place (ideally under 25°C) and keep it away from sunlight and bedding [23][24][25].
• Use the right equipment: Use only chargers provided by your phone's manufacturer. Damaged or cheap chargers increase fire risk [26][27].
• Watch for warning signs: Swollen batteries may cause the screen to lift or gaps to form. If you notice this, stop using and charging the device immediately, and place it on a flat, fire-resistant surface [28].

[knowledge]Did You Know?
A lithium-ion battery fire can ignite in just seconds if a device overheats on a soft surface. Proper ventilation and manufacturer-approved chargers greatly reduce this risk.[/knowledge][h3]Timeline: Google Pixel A-Series Battery Issues[/h3][p]Google's affordable Pixel A-series has seen repeated battery safety concerns:[/p]

• 2020 – Pixel 4a battery overheating and forced battery update
• 2022 – Pixel 6a fire incidents, recall, and mandatory update
• 2023 – Pixel 7a battery swelling and extended repair program
• 2025 – Pixel 9a delayed release due to "component quality" issues

[h3]What to Do If You're Affected[/h3][p]If you own a Pixel 6a, start by checking your device eligibility at https://g.co/pixel/6abattery. The update downloads automatically and devices restart to apply it [29].[/p][p]Support options may not be available in all countries, and only for adults who've reached legal majority locally. Once a claim is processed, it can't be changed [30][31].[/p][p]Australian rights under the Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program are separate from statutory Australian consumer law, which remains in full effect [32].[/p][h3]Getting Help and Support[/h3][p]If you're facing Pixel 6a problems or battery overheating in any phone:[/p]

• Product Safety Australia: Quote PRA number 2025/20591 when contacting regulators about this recall. Call the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission if you have questions about the remedy [33].
• In emergencies: If your phone overheats, swells, or catches fire, stop using it and call emergency services if required.
• Consumer Rights: You're legally entitled to a safe product – replacement or refund if a device is unsafe. See ACCC for details [34].

[h3]The Bigger Picture[/h3][p]While Google tries to address these issues, the Pixel 6a saga is a reminder that today's smart tech isn't risk-free. This rocky patch has hurt Google's hardware reputation [35][36], causing many to question whether they can rely on crucial day-to-day devices.[/p][p]For older Australians, especially those relying on phones for emergencies and care, the key takeaway is to balance technology convenience with good safety practice. By following the right charging steps and staying alert to recalls, you can minimise the risk and keep your smartphone working safely.[/p][conclusion][p]Remember, safety comes before convenience. A few extra seconds to unplug your phone or use the right charger could save your health or property.[/p][p]What's your experience with smartphone charging safety? Have you made any changes to how or where you charge your devices after hearing about these incidents? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below.[/p][/conclusion][source][sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Google Pixel 6a smartphone | ACCC Product Safety[/sourcetitle]
[p]An overheating battery could pose a risk of fire and/or burns to a user. Incidents have occurred resulting in serious burn injuries. [/p]
[p]https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls/google-pixel-6a-smartphone[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]Google has determined that certain Pixel 6a phones (“Impacted Devices”) require a mandatory software update to reduce the risk of potential battery ov...[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]Starting July 8, 2025, your Pixel 6a will automatically receive a mandatory software update to Android 16. [/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]All Pixel 6a devices will receive a mandatory automatic software update to Android 16, with roll out starting July 8 2025, but only Impacted Devices w...[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]Some users will see changes sooner than others, because the battery management features activate only after an Impacted Device reaches 400 charge cycl...[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]These changes will ONLY activate if (1) you have an Impacted Device and (2) once your phone's battery has completed 400 charge cycles. [/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Fix battery drain problem - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]To fix battery drain, use the st[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6090599?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Fix battery drain problem - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p][/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6090599?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Google initiates an Extended Repair Program for the Pixel 7a's battery issue | Android Central[/sourcetitle]
[p]The company published a support document for the Pixel 7a's Extended Repair Program, which concerns a "battery swelling" issue (via 9to5Google). [/p]
[p]https://www.androidcentral.com/phon...extended-repair-program-information-explained[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Catches Fire, Bedsheet Burns – Are Pixel 6a Batteries a Safety Risk? - Gizchina.com[/sourcetitle]
[p]The latest incident involves a Google Pixel 6a from 2022 that caught fire while charging on a bedside table. A Reddit user reported the incident and s...[/p]
[p]https://www.gizchina.com/2025/07/27...t-burns-are-pixel-6a-batteries-a-safety-risk/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Catches Fire, Bedsheet Burns – Are Pixel 6a Batteries a Safety Risk? - Gizchina.com[/sourcetitle]
[p]The fire spread quickly and ignited the nearby bedsheet. The user inhaled smoke in the closed room, which caused throat discomfort and lingering sympt...[/p]
[p]https://www.gizchina.com/2025/07/27...t-burns-are-pixel-6a-batteries-a-safety-risk/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Warning: Google will soon nerf the Pixel 6a’s battery due to an overheating issue - Android Authority[/sourcetitle]
[p]Over the past months, we’ve spotted as many as four separate instances of the device catching fire — with the first report in December 2024, and the l...[/p]
[p]https://www.androidauthority.com/pixel-6a-battery-overheating-warning-3566640/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]... Not eligible The IMEI (xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx) that you entered is not eligible for a repair at no cost to you, cash payment or Google Store hardware dis...[/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 7a: Google offers up to $450 in compensation for fresh battery issue affecting Pixel A series smartphones - NotebookCheck.net News[/sourcetitle]
[p]Typically, this fault would present itself when the battery forces the Pixel 7a's back panel to bulge or detatch completely. [/p]
[p]https://www.notebookcheck.net/Pixel...ing-Pixel-A-series-smartphones.1004433.0.html[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 7a: Google offers up to $450 in compensation for fresh battery issue affecting Pixel A series smartphones - NotebookCheck.net News[/sourcetitle]
[p]This time, it is the Pixel 7a that is affected. [/p]
[p]https://www.notebookcheck.net/Pixel...ing-Pixel-A-series-smartphones.1004433.0.html[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]People will get different …[/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]- Receive a cash payment worth $100 USD (converted to your local currency) - Receive a Google Store discount code worth $150 USD (converted to your lo...[/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]The Dangers of Charging Phones Overnight | HR Fire & Safety[/sourcetitle]
[p]Educating the public on safe charging practices and the importance of creating a tech-free bedroom environment is a step forward in addressing these c...[/p]
[p]https://hrfireandsafety.co.uk/the-dangers-of-charging-phones-overnight/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Do You Charge Your Phone by Your Bed? You Might Be Playing with Fire - Royal Examiner[/sourcetitle]
[p]Beware of Swollen Batteries The biggest safety risk, however, is a damaged or swollen lithium-ion battery. If your phone’s battery is swollen, you mig...[/p]
[p]https://royalexaminer.com/do-you-charge-your-phone-by-your-bed-you-might-be-playing-with-fire/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Do You Charge Your Phone by Your Bed? You Might Be Playing with Fire - Royal Examiner[/sourcetitle]
[p]According to Tom’s Guide, this is a major red flag. [/p]
[p]https://royalexaminer.com/do-you-charge-your-phone-by-your-bed-you-might-be-playing-with-fire/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]To claim a support option, visit our registration page to begin the process. [/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]If available to you, you may alternatively make ...[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]How Pixel’s Adaptive Charging, Battery Share can be a lifesaver.[/sourcetitle]
[p]Whether you are on a trek in the woods or just on the go all day, Pixel’s adaptive battery features keep your phone going strong so you don't hav...[/p]
[p]https://store.google.com/intl/en/ideas/articles/pixel-battery-saver-features/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Firefighters Warn: Stop Charging Your Phones Overnight to Prevent Fire Hazards[/sourcetitle]
[p]These fires not only destroy property but can also lead to injuries or, in severe cases, fatalities. In one notable case, a home was severely damaged ...[/p]
[p]https://sfl.media/firefighters-warn-stop-charging-your-phones-overnight-to-prevent-fire-hazards/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Contact us | ACCC Product Safety[/sourcetitle]
[p]Contact us to make an enquiry or report an unsafe product. [/p]
[p]https://www.productsafety.gov.au/about-us/contact-us[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Firefighters Warn: Stop Charging Your Phones Overnight to Prevent Fire Hazards[/sourcetitle]
[p]Firefighter and safety expert Mark Taylor explains, “People often place their charging phones on flammable surfaces, and this traps heat. In some case...[/p]
[p]https://sfl.media/firefighters-warn-stop-charging-your-phones-overnight-to-prevent-fire-hazards/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Firefighters Warn: Stop Charging Your Phones Overnight to Prevent Fire Hazards[/sourcetitle]
[p]Thank you for your comment! No comments available. [/p]
[p]https://sfl.media/firefighters-warn-stop-charging-your-phones-overnight-to-prevent-fire-hazards/[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]HSE: The dangers of phone charging | Omega 365[/sourcetitle]
[p][/p]
[p]https://www.omega365.com/inside/hse...-of-starting-a-fire-or-getting-poisoned-11391[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]The update will download automatically for all Pixel 6a users starting July 8, 2025. After the software update is downloaded, your device will restart...[/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16340779?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]Individual end users will have one year from the initial software release on July 8, 2025 to register and make a choice of one of the support options,...[/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]HERE WE GO AGAIN!!!! [/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Refund of US$452 (~A$686) for Eligible In-Warranty Pixel 6a @ Google - OzBargain[/sourcetitle]
[p]... What othsr phone did they do this for? My 8 pro has an annoying glitch on the scree that i need to warranty, but the system they use here in austr...[/p]
[p]https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/913477[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Google Pixel 6a smartphone | ACCC Product Safety[/sourcetitle]
[p]Quote PRA number 2025/20591 when contacting a regulator about this recall. Contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission if you have: a q...[/p]
[p]https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls/google-pixel-6a-smartphone[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Product safety as a consumer guarantee | ACCC Product Safety[/sourcetitle]
[p][/p]
[p]https://www.productsafety.gov.au/product-safety-laws/legislation/australian-consumer-law[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Extended Repair Program for Pixel 7a - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]... [/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16043453?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]

[sourceurl]
[sourcetitle]Extended Repair Program for Pixel 7a - Pixel Phone Help[/sourcetitle]
[p]The phone may appear thicker than usual, or the back cover might be bulging. [/p]
[p]https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16043453?hl=en[/p]
[/sourceurl]
[/source]