Australia's consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), has issued an urgent safety warning for Google Pixel 6a smartphones. The alert highlights a potential fire and burn hazard caused by overheating batteries in select units of the device. The regulator urged consumers to immediately stop using the affected phones.

Battery Malfunctions Reported

The warning follows several reports of Google Pixel 6a devices overheating during use or while charging. In at least one case, the battery reportedly emitted smoke and was at risk of catching fire. While no injuries have been confirmed so far, the risk level was deemed significant enough to warrant a formal product safety alert.

Units Sold via Various Retailers

According to the ACCC, affected units may have been sold between August 2022 and July 2024 through Google’s official store, JB Hi-Fi, Telstra, and other local retailers. Consumers are advised to cross-check their device's serial number against a list provided on Google's support website to determine if their phone is part of the impacted batch.

Google’s Official Response

In response to the ACCC’s announcement, Google stated it is working closely with relevant authorities and is actively investigating the issue. A spokesperson reassured customers that safety remains a top priority and that support and replacement options will be made available where necessary.

Next Steps for Consumers

Users of the Pixel 6a are advised to:

• Cease using the device immediately if it shows signs of overheating.

• Check for any damage or abnormal heating during charging.

• Contact Google’s support team for further instructions or possible replacement.

Broader Implications

This incident could affect Google’s standing in Australia’s competitive smartphone market, especially with new Pixel models on the horizon. Safety recalls can also damage brand trust if not handled transparently and swiftly. Industry analysts suggest Google may roll out a software update or initiate a partial recall, depending on investigation results.