GOOGLE is handing out free repairs or cash to a select number of Android phone owners experiencing “battery swelling”.
Owners of the Pixel 7a have been warned that their device is at higher risk of a bizarre issue that causes the handset to bulge.
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Affected users may notice visible swelling of their device, noticeable gaps along the edges of the phone, or their battery draining significantly faster than usual.
In a Google support page, the company says it has extended to repair programme for Pixel 7a models.
“Google has determined that certain Pixel 7a phones may experience unexpected battery swelling,” Google writes.
“To ensure that our customers have the best possible experience with Google products, some Pixel 7a devices may be eligible for a battery replacement repair at no charge or another form of appeasement option from Google.”
Depending on whether the device is in or out of warranty, affected Pixel 7a owners can get a cash-led apology to the tune of between $200 (£150) and $456 (£342).
Google faced complaints on social media as early as December before taking action.
One Reddit user said they only got a solution from the company after posting about it on Reddit.
“Make a post; Google is more helpful on Reddit than their chat support,” they wrote.
Not all Pixel 7a devices are impacted by battery swelling.
If your device is not experiencing the issue, then you will not be eligible for Google’s offer.
However, if the phone appears thicker than usual, or the back cover is bulging, then you can check if your Pixel 7a is eligible on Google’s website here.
US users have two options: walk-ins or mail-ins to an authorised repair centre.
While Brits are only eligible for in-person repairs.
Google is quick to mention that devices with other forms of damage, like water or excessive force, may not qualify for the free battery replacement.
If the phone has out-of-warranty damage, such as display or cover glass cracks, then there may also be a fee to repair it.
“Even if an Impacted Device is eligible for a battery replacement at no charge, upon receipt, a physical inspection of your phone is conducted before starting the repair to verify that the phone is in suitable condition for repair,” explains Google.
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