Just when Pixel phone users were hoping for a smooth, mid-year refresh, Google dropped its July 2025 software update—and it’s sparking more concern than celebration. While the update brings necessary security patches and a handful of useful tweaks, it’s also turning into a headache for users of some older Pixel phones, especially the once-loved Pixel 6a.
For anyone invested in Google’s hardware ecosystem or closely following the trajectory of Google Pixel updates, this month’s rollout delivers a clear message: not all updates are created equal.
The Good, the Buggy, and the Battery-Draining
Let’s start with what’s inside. The new update—build number BP2A.250705.008—is rolling out to Pixel devices from the 6a onward, promising improved Wi-Fi performance and a fix for glitchy visuals affecting Android Auto and select apps. That’s the good news.
The not-so-good part? If you own a Pixel 6a, this could be the update that changes everything—literally.
Battery Blues for Pixel 6a Users
In an effort to address overheating risks, Google has kicked off the Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program. The update throttles battery performance on select Pixel 6a models that have gone through at least 400 charge cycles. Translation? If your device qualifies as “impacted,” you’ll start seeing reduced battery life as soon as the update kicks in.
And no—you can’t skip or reverse it. This is a mandatory update. Google has even removed older firmware downloads to make sure users can’t revert.
Now, is it all doom and gloom? Not entirely. Affected users can head to Google’s official eligibility portal to check if their Pixel 6a is one of the unlucky ones. If it is, you’re eligible for a free battery replacement, a cash settlement, or a credit toward a new Pixel. Still, this move feels like a chapter straight out of the Pixel 4a’s controversial update saga earlier this year.
If you ask those of us working in tech services—like the team at Arrow PC Network, which supports enterprise mobility and IT services for Pixel phones and Google ecosystems—this highlights the growing tension between mandatory security updates and long-term device performance.
The Curious Case of the Pixel 6
Even more baffling? The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro have been completely left out of this update. Just last month, they received Android 16, part of Google’s extended OS support promise stretching to October 2026. But this time around, they’re nowhere to be found on the updated list.
Is this a skipped cycle or a quiet farewell? Google hasn’t said. And users are left wondering whether their device just became obsolete a year ahead of schedule. For the many who invested in the Pixel 6 hoping for longevity, the silence stings.
That Pesky Back Button Bug Still Isn’t Fixed
A particularly frustrating issue that came with Android 16—the unresponsive back gesture and broken 3-button navigation—is still hanging around. Users have been complaining for weeks. The official response? Google knows about it, and a fix is “coming,” but it didn’t make it into the July update.
That means users will have to wait until August for relief, even though beta testers already received the patch weeks ago. For devices meant to “just work,” these sorts of hiccups are becoming annoyingly routine.
Silver Linings for Newer Pixel Devices
If you’re not using a Pixel 6 series phone—or you’ve avoided the 6a entirely—this update might actually feel… refreshing. Improved Wi-Fi stability, smoother display rendering, and a cleaner Android Auto experience are all on the list. But even these benefits are being rolled out gradually over the next week.
So if you’re tapping “Check for updates” on repeat in your settings menu—go to Settings → System → Software update → Check for updates—you’re not alone. Google’s staggered release model is keeping users guessing, and frankly, a little anxious.
What This Means for the Bigger Pixel Picture
Updates like these are a double-edged sword. They reinforce Google’s commitment to device security and performance—but also highlight the compromises that come with owning older hardware. It’s a tough spot for consumers and IT administrators alike.
From an enterprise tech perspective, IT services by Arrow PC Network continue to play a key role in managing mobile ecosystems, especially for organisations that rely on a diverse fleet of Android devices. Whether it’s overseeing Google Pixel updates, evaluating device lifecycle policies, or rolling out timely upgrades, businesses need expert partners to navigate this complex terrain.
Thoughts…
This month’s Pixel update is a classic case of two steps forward, one step back. While newer models enjoy the perks of ongoing refinement, older devices—especially the Pixel 6a—are starting to feel the cost of their age.
If you’re a Pixel user, now’s a good time to consider your options. And if you’re part of an organisation managing multiple devices, it’s time to rethink how you handle updates and device refresh cycles.
As Google continues to tweak and tune its Pixel ecosystem, the smart move is to stay informed—and stay prepared. Because the next update? It might just bring a little more heat than you bargained for.
