In a bid to keep pace with competitors, Google has unveiled a promising new feature with its upcoming Android 16 update: the “Battery Health” indicator. But, much to the chagrin of many Pixel users, this feature won’t grace all models. According to heise online, the functionality is limited to recent releases like the Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, leaving earlier models feeling neglected.
Google’s Unspoken Strategy
Much like its peer, Apple, which integrated a similar feature across all compatible iOS 11 devices (even those as old as the iPhone 6), Google’s choice to withhold the new battery health feature from older Pixel models comes as a surprise. For users of older Pixels, it raises questions about the balance between innovation and inclusivity within Google’s strategy.
The Rationale Behind the Omission
The exclusion has come under the microscope after it was revealed via Google’s issue tracker. A Reddit user discovered that Google’s decision aligns with what the company describes as ‘product limitations.’ However, the lack of specific details has left many users speculating about the real reasons behind this limitation.
A Missed Opportunity for Longevity?
Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users, launched just months before the 8a and 9, find themselves out in the cold despite Google’s promise of seven years of updates. This exclusion feels even more abrupt when considering that extending device longevity through better battery management could align with Google’s consistent sustainability messaging.
Workarounds for Savvy Users
For Pixel users who still wish to monitor their battery health, third-party solutions like AccuBattery and Battery Guru remain viable alternatives. In an era when tech companies emphasize environmental responsibility, the absence of native solutions on older devices suggests Google still has room to grow in harmonizing innovation with long-term device support.
Google’s decision marks a significant moment in the tech landscape, underscoring the ongoing challenge of balancing cutting-edge advancements with broader access. Users and industry watchers alike will be eager to see whether Google recalibrates its approach in response to feedback moving forward.