Google Pixel 4a smartphone recalled
A popular smartphone has been urgently recalled from several stores over fears it could burst into flames.
Google Pixel 4a users were urged to stop using the smart phones after they received an update out just months ago.
The ACCC said the automatic Android 13 firmware update was released for Pixel 4a phones in Australia on January 8, 2025, and included new safety features.
'The firmware update provides new battery management features to mitigate the risk of overheating,' the ACCC said.
An overheating battery could carry a risk of fire or burns to users, it added.
Affected customers could be eligible for refunds.
Google Australia, Telstra, JB Hi Fi, Harvey Norman, Optus, Officeworks and TPG Telecom sold the devices.
Devices with the model number G025N are affected.
Google Pixel 4a customers have been advised to check if their devices received a firmware update amid recalls
Major Australian retailers sold the devices, consumers were told to check their eligibility for a refund
The affected devices sold between August 1, 2020, and September 30, 2022.
The consumer watchdog told customers to check their device against Google's own help centre.
'This issue does not affect all Pixel 4a devices; if a consumer’s device is not impacted by the issue, the firmware update will have no impact on battery management and the device will perform the same as before,' the ACCC website read.
'Consumers may be eligible for an appeasement from Google.
