With the Android update, Google has disabled wireless charging on some Pixel devices. Security bet seems to solve the problem. If not, there is a procedure that might work.
Today, wireless charging is almost an integral feature of mid-range and high-end smartphones. Whether you have an iPhone or an Android device, you know that you can simply put an almost empty phone on a Qi charger and gradually see results. However, it looks like Google accidentally broke wireless charging on its Pixels with a recent Android update. If your Pixel smartphone is affected, know that you can fix the problem.
Where is the problem with this wireless charger that no longer works?
There are a lot of complaints on r/Android that wireless charging no longer works on pixels, and many of them are quite old. The August 17th post explains the situation, as does the October 4th post. The problem seems to have arisen in Android 13: while the new major version of Google’s OS offers many new features, it undermines wireless charging on some pixels.
Judging by reports and comments on r/Android, the Pixel 4 XL has been hit the hardest, but other models have also been affected, including the Pixel 6 Pro. Some users claim that the Pixel sometimes says it’s charging when it’s not. In other cases, it starts charging before shutting down.
How to fix wireless charging on your Pixel
Many attempts to fix the problem have failed, but luckily the latest security update, at least according to user djc-503, offers a solution. Wireless charging didn’t work until this latest security update came out, which would restore it to the Pixel 4. To install said update, simply go to Settings > System > System Update.
However, if the update doesn’t fix the problem for you, there is another way. User SnooDrawings7662 managed to bring wireless charging back to life on his Pixel 4 XL and Pixel 6 Pro by following these steps:
You first need to clear the cache of the Pixel Stand app by going to Settings > Storage > Other Apps, selecting the Pixel Stand app, and then Clear Cache. Then start in safe mode by pressing and holding the power button, then pressing and holding “Power off”. Then select Restart in Safe Mode. Once your device restarts, connect your Pixel to Pixel Stand. Finally, restart your smartphone to exit safe mode. After that, your Pixel will be able to charge wirelessly again.
Of course, you don’t have to go through all these maneuvers for such basic functionality, ultimately your smartphone, it’s just a temporary workaround. At least we hope so.