Wireless charging has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering both convenience and efficiency. New models of Google Pixel devices support wireless charging, making it easy to keep your phone powered up without dealing with cords. However, sometimes wireless charging may not work, leaving you frustrated and searching for a solution.
This article will guide you through troubleshooting steps to fix Google Pixel wireless charging issues and possibly win the featured snippet in Google search.
Several factors can cause wireless charging issues in Google Pixel phones. Some of the common causes include:
1. Incompatible devices.
- Google Pixel and Google Pixel 2 do not support wireless charging. If you have one of these models, you will not be able to use wireless charging features.
2. Incompatible charger or cable.
- Using a non-Qi-compatible charger or a damaged charging cable can affect the wireless charging process. Ensure you’re using a proper Qi-compatible charger, cable, and wall adapter.
3. Misalignment on the charging pad.
- Google Pixel devices need to be correctly aligned on the charging pad for wireless charging to work. The phone should be placed flat and centered on the charging pad to ensure optimal charging.
4. Obstructive accessories.
- Thick phone cases, metal attachments, or pop sockets can interfere with the wireless charging process by blocking the charging coils’ connection. Removing these obstructions can help resolve the issue.
5. Outdated software.
- An outdated software on your Google Pixel phone may cause compatibility issues with wireless charging. Updating your device’s software to the latest version can resolve such issues.
6. Dirty or damaged charging coils.
- Dust, dirt, or debris on the charging coils of your phone or the charging pad can affect the charging process. Gently cleaning the coils with a clean, dry cloth or compressed air can help remove obstructions.
7. Hardware issues.
- Wireless charging problems could be due to faulty hardware components on either the phone, the charging pad, or both. In such cases, it’s essential to contact Google Support or visit an authorized repair center to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Identifying the specific cause and taking the appropriate corrective action can help address wireless charging issues in Google Pixel phones.
Recommended Solutions
Based on the commonly identified causes, we’ve come up with these helpful workarounds to deal with wireless charging issues on Google Pixel devices.
Note:
- Some of these methods may not be applicable depending on your phone’s model, software version, and current condition. Only choose the ones that are relevant and suitable.
1st solution: Check Your Google Pixel Model
Checking your Google Pixel model when dealing with wireless charging issues is necessary because not all Pixel models support this feature. Wireless charging is only available in Google Pixel 3 and later models, so identifying your model helps you confirm if your device is compatible with wireless charging.
If you have a Google Pixel or Pixel 2, then your device will not have wireless charging capabilities.
2nd solution: Use a Compatible Wireless Charger and Cable
Using a compatible wireless charger and cable is necessary when dealing with wireless charging issues on Google Pixel because these devices use the Qi wireless charging standard. Incompatible chargers or damaged cables can negatively impact the charging process or potentially damage your Pixel phone.
Ensure you’re using a Qi-compatible wireless charger, as Google Pixel devices use the Qi wireless charging standard. Additionally, check that the charger’s cable and wall adapter are in good condition and properly connected.
3rd solution: Remove Obstructions
Removing obstructions, such as thick cases, pop sockets, or metal attachments from your Google Pixel device before placing it on the wireless charger is necessary when dealing with wireless charging issues in Google Pixel devices because they can interfere with the charging process.
These obstructions can block the connection between the phone’s charging coil and the charger, preventing a stable and efficient charging experience.
4th solution: Update Your Google Pixel Software
Updating the Google Pixel software when dealing with wireless charging problems is necessary because it ensures compatibility with the latest features and addresses known bugs or issues.
An outdated software version might cause conflicts or malfunctions with wireless charging, while updating to the latest version can help resolve such problems.
- To update your Google Pixel phone, just go to `Settings` > `System` > `Advanced` > `System update`, and follow the on-screen instructions to update your device’s software.
Make sure that your phone is connected to a stable internet, sufficiently charged and has ample storage space to allocate the new software update file.
5th solution: Check Charger Alignment
Checking charger alignment when dealing with wireless charging issues on Google Pixel is necessary because proper alignment ensures that the charging coils in the phone and the charger are connected optimally.
Misalignment can result in inefficient charging or no charging at all, making it essential to verify correct placement on the charging pad.
To check charger alignment on your Google Pixel while using a wireless charger, follow these steps:
- Locate the center of the wireless charging pad, where the charging coils are present.
- Place your Google Pixel device flat on the charging pad, with the back facing down, ensuring that the device’s center is aligned with the pad’s charging coils.
Proper alignment is crucial for efficient wireless charging. Some wireless chargers may have an LED indicator or a specific marking to help align your smartphone.
Additionally, you might hear a notification sound or see a charging icon on your Google Pixel screen when the device is aligned correctly and charging wirelessly. If it’s not charging, try repositioning the phone until it starts charging.
6th solution: Test Another Device and Charger
Testing another device and charger when dealing with wireless charging issues in Google Pixel is important because it helps you identify if the problem lies within your Pixel phone or the wireless charger itself.
So, try charging other Qi-compatible devices on the wireless charger to identify if the issue is with the charger or your Pixel phone. Likewise, test your Pixel phone on a different charger to narrow down the problem’s source.
By testing different combinations, you can isolate and troubleshoot the issue more effectively, ultimately finding the correct solution.
7th solution: Clean the Charging Coils
Remove any dirt, debris, or dust from the phone and charger’s charging coils. Gently use a clean, dry cloth or compressed air to clean the area.
Cleaning the charging coils when dealing with wireless charging issues in Google Pixel is necessary because dust, dirt, or debris can accumulate on the coils and interfere with the charging process.
Ensuring the coils are clean helps establish a proper connection between the phone and the charging pad, allowing for more efficient and stable wireless charging.
To clean the charging coils on your wireless charging pad and Google Pixel device, follow these steps:
1. Power off the device.
- Before cleaning, ensure that your phone and the wireless charging pad are both turned off and unplugged from the power source.
2. Use a clean, dry cloth.
- Gently wipe the charging coils on both your Google Pixel and the charging pad using a soft, lint-free cloth. This helps remove any dust or dirt accumulated on the surface.
3. Use compressed air.
- You can also use a can of compressed air to blow away dust particles from the charging coil area. Ensure you hold the can at a safe distance from the device and use short bursts to avoid damaging the phone or charging pad.
4. Inspect the coils.
- Once cleaned, inspect the wireless charging pad and your Google Pixel for any additional dirt or debris that may have been missed during cleaning. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process.
5. Resume charging.
- After cleaning, reconnect your charging pad to the power source, and place your Google Pixel on it, ensuring proper alignment. The wireless charging should now work efficiently, provided there are no other underlying issues.
Remember to avoid using liquid cleaning solutions or abrasive materials, as these can damage the device or charging pad.
8th solution: Restart Your Google Pixel Device
Restarting your Google Pixel when dealing with wireless charging issues is necessary because it can resolve temporary software glitches or conflicts that might be affecting the device’s performance.
A restart clears the short-term memory and resets active processes, which can often help in fixing minor problems, including wireless charging issues.
- To restart your Google Pixel phone, just press and hold the power button, then select “Restart” or “Power off,” followed by powering on your device.
After it reboots, retry placing it on the wireless charging and see if the problem is gone.
Note:
- This method is only applicable if your phone still has enough power or battery life.
Contact Google Support
If these troubleshooting steps don’t resolve your Google Pixel’s wireless charging issue, there’s a good chance that the problem is due to a hardware fault.
In this case, contacting Google Support for further assistance can be regarded among the next better solutions. Or, you may also opt to inquire about repairs or warranty options.
FAQs
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about wireless charging not working issues on Google Pixel devices:
1. Which Google Pixel models support wireless charging?
- Wireless charging is supported by Google Pixel 3 and later models. Google Pixel and Google Pixel 2 do not support wireless charging.
2. What type of wireless charger should I use for my Google Pixel?
- Ensure you’re using a Qi-compatible wireless charger, as Google Pixel devices use the Qi wireless charging standard.
3. Why isn’t my Google Pixel charging wirelessly with a case on?
- Thick cases, metal attachments, or pop sockets can interfere with the wireless charging process. Remove any such obstructions from your Pixel device before placing it on the charger.
4. How do I align my Google Pixel properly on a wireless charger?
- Place your Google Pixel device flat on the center of the charging pad, where the charging coils are located. Misalignment can result in inefficient charging or no charging at all.
5. Can a software update fix wireless charging issues on my Google Pixel phone?
- Updating your phone’s software can potentially fix wireless charging issues, as it ensures compatibility with the latest features and addresses any known bugs. Go to `Settings` > `System` > `Advanced` > `System update` to check for updates.
6. How can I clean the charging coils on my Google Pixel and the wireless charger?
- To clean the charging coils, gently use a clean, dry cloth or compressed air to remove any dirt, debris, or dust from the phone and charger’s charging coil areas.
7. What should I do if my Google Pixel still isn’t charging wirelessly after trying all suggested fixes?
- If your Google Pixel still doesn’t charge wirelessly after trying the troubleshooting steps, it may be due to a hardware issue or fault. In such cases, contact Google Support for further assistance or to inquire about repairs or warranty options.
Remember that regular device maintenance and using compatible charging accessories can help ensure a seamless wireless charging experience for your Google Pixel device.
