TECH NEWS – Google is essentially encouraging users to buy new hardware over time, even though it’s not necessary.

Every battery naturally degrades after a certain number of charge cycles. That process isn’t typically caused by manufacturers themselves—unless they implement forced software changes like the one Google just did. According to Android Authority, the Pixel 10 starts reducing the battery’s voltage after just 200 cycles, gradually continuing until it hits 1,000 cycles.

“This software will adjust the battery’s maximum voltage in stages starting at 200 cycles and continuing gradually until 1,000 cycles to help stabilize performance and aging. You may notice small decreases in your battery’s runtime as it ages. Battery health assistance will also adjust the phone’s charging speed based on the new capacity. You may notice a slight change in battery charging performance,” Google said.

However, the company has not explained why this battery-saving feature actually causes the Pixel 10’s battery to wear out more quickly. In practice, this means that if you charge your phone once daily, the battery’s overall capacity will begin to decline in under a year. If you need to charge it twice a day, that degradation will happen even faster. By contrast, Samsung’s flagship smartphones can handle around 2,000 charge cycles before the battery drops to 80% of its original capacity.

Google’s decision likely stems from recent safety issues with the Pixel 6a, which reportedly caught fire in some cases, damaging property and potentially endangering lives. To avoid repeating that scandal, the Battery Health Assistance feature is now deliberately set to start limiting voltage at 200 charge cycles, helping to safeguard users and preserve the Pixel brand’s reputation. In the long run, Google may introduce a more rigorous battery testing protocol to ensure that future Pixel devices retain their charge longer and minimize any fire or explosion hazards.

Until then, the Pixel 10’s battery health system will continue draining the battery at an accelerated rate — and there’s nothing you can do to stop it.

Source: WCCFTech, Android Authority