Facepalm: Software updates are traditionally designed to improve a device's performance and overall functionality. Occasionally, however, manufacturers are forced to release updates that have a known negative impact on performance. While the stated goals may change, users are never pleased when they are forced to sacrifice amenities like speed and battery life they once enjoyed. Google has launched a battery performance program for the Pixel 4a, a budget smartphone released in 2020 and discontinued in 2023. The company is rolling out an automatic update for Android 13 that includes new battery management features.Over time, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries may experience significant degradation, which is why Google recommends battery replacement. Google acknowledges that this update could reduce battery capacity and even impact charging performance on some devices. Not all Pixel 4a variants are affected by the change, so users will need to check to see if they own an impacted device.Some owners may be eligible for a free battery replacement. If battery replacement isn't feasible, Google offers a one-time $50 payment or a $100 discount code for purchasing another Pixel phone through the official Google Store.Google stopped selling and updating Pixel 4a devices a few years ago, but many users are likely still using this budget smartphone today. Returning phones affected by the new battery issue isn't required, so customers can continue enjoying their vintage (ish) smartphone experience as long as they understand what they're dealing with.The company also provides useful advice and best practices to maximize battery health, although some steps only apply to Android 9.0 and later operating systems. My recently purchased Google Pixel 7a has yet to show any noticeable battery issues, although customization options for the Home screen are severely lacking for an "open" mobile operating system like Android 15. // Related StoriesGoogle likely decided to make the Pixel 4a battery performance program public to avoid potential legal issues with customers. In 2017, Apple pushed a similar software update to improve iPhone battery and power management, but users sued the company after discovering their devices were being deliberately slowed down.