Problems with my Pixel 7a’s battery, what is Google doing about it?

In April 2025, Google launched the so-called “Extended Repair Program for Pixel 7a“, after more and more users reported unexpected battery swelling. Devices were getting deformed, the back cover was letting go or the battery was suddenly draining ridiculously fast. Sometimes the phone even refused to charge anymore.

Sound familiar? Then your device may well fall under this program. Unlike the Pixel 4a Battery problems? Google blunders with software update and Pixel 6a update or overheating? You choose! blogs, which we wrote about earlier, this is not a software bug, but a physical battery problem. And that calls for something more than a reboot or a software update

In this blog, we discuss the following topics:

• Which Pixel 7a devices are covered by the repair program?
• How do you recognize if your Google Pixel 7a is defective?
• What exactly does Google offer, and what should you pay attention to?
• What is the best thing for you to do now, and how does ThePhoneLab help you do it?

Which Pixel 7a devices are covered by the repair program?

Not all Pixel 7a’s are affected, though unfortunately it is not always visible on the outside. Google calls the affected ones “impacted devices,” and only those fall within the program. It applies to consumers within the European Union, including the Netherlands.

In some countries you can just walk into an official Google service point, but in our little country things are a little different. There is no official repair center here, so you usually have to deal with the so-called “appeasement options.” You can check if your device qualifies via the Google’s support page, where you enter the serial number or IMEI followed by a questionnaire. From there, Google can see if your Pixel 7a is included in the program.

How do you recognize if your Google Pixel 7a is defective?

The first signs usually don’t let themselves be missed. The back of your device may slowly loosen or bulge, the battery drains faster than ever, or charging barely works. Some users even notice that the screen pushes up slightly due to stress from within. Want to know more about the dangers and steps to follow when you have a faulty battery? Then read; Battery of your phone or laptop swollen? Note!

If that is the case in short; stop charging and using immediately. Swelling occurs because the battery gives off gas internally, which causes pressure, and you don’t want that in your pocket or on your nightstand. At ThePhoneLab, we see this more often with lithium-ion batteries that have overheated or are simply showing signs of aging and now specifically with the Pixel 7a.

What exactly does Google offer, and what should you pay attention to?

Depending on your region and the warranty period, the already sweet Google gives you three possible outcomes.

1: In countries where Google repair centers are available, Google offers a free battery replacement.

2: In the Netherlands, the reimbursement usually applies. Outside the warranty you can choose between a 170,- euro cashback or 260,- euro discount on new Google hardware. (If you still want it after this Google blunder of course)

3: Within the warranty period, this can amount to a fee of 390.

If you have already paid for a battery replacement at an authorized repair shop such as ThePhoneLab yourself before January 30, 2025, you may be able to claim the 170.00 euros back. Please note that the replacement applies once per device and does not extend the warranty. Moreover, Google may refuse a request if there is additional damage present, such as moisture, cracks or pressure damage. In short: check the condition of your device carefully before making a claim. Not sure? At ThePhoneLab, we always give free advice.

Have you already had your Pixel 7a battery replaced at ThePhoneLab or are you looking to do so? Then please read our warranty terms; ThePhoneLab’s Lifetime Warranty

What is the best thing for you to do now, and how does ThePhoneLab help you do it?

Because Google does not have its own walk-in centers in the Netherlands, many Pixel users are left with questions. Is my device impacted? Should I wait for Google, or can I get something checked in advance? And what if the screen is already coming loose due to swelling?

That’s where we come in. ThePhoneLab is not an official Google service point, but we are an experienced & independent Google repair company with experience of battery swelling on Pixel devices. We can inspect your device, determine if it’s safe to still use, and help with proper documentation for your claim with Google. Even if your device has since suffered damage, we can advise on the best next step, whether that’s a replacement, reimbursement or temporary repair.

Make your Google Pixel appointment soon or feel free to walk in to one of our stores!