Google Adds Bypass Charging Support to Pixel 9 and Other Models in December Update
The December Pixel Feature Drop introduced several new features for compatible Google Pixel devices, and one of the most notable is the addition of bypass charging support. This feature allows users to power their Pixel smartphones directly from the wall outlet, bypassing the battery. A recent discovery, shared by users on social media, reveals that the Pixel 9 series, along with other recent Pixel models, can now take advantage of this feature, which may help extend the lifespan of the battery by preventing unnecessary charge cycles.
How Bypass Charging Works on Pixel Devices
The new bypass charging feature is part of a broader effort by Google to enhance battery longevity on its devices. As part of the December update, users can now set a charging limit of 80 percent, which is part of the “Charging optimization” settings. This limit prevents the battery from reaching full charge, thus reducing the stress on the battery and potentially extending its overall life. When this limit is activated, the device will run directly off the AC power once it hits 80 percent, avoiding the need to draw power from the battery for routine operations.
Comparison to Other Devices Offering Bypass Charging
Bypass charging was previously available on select devices from Samsung and Asus, such as the Samsung Galaxy and Asus ROG phones. Now, Google has integrated this feature into its Pixel lineup, marking an important step toward giving users more control over how their phones manage battery charging. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 series models are among the first to support this feature, which could prove beneficial for users who frequently keep their devices plugged in, such as during long workdays or when using the phone as a media player at home.
User Experience with Bypass Charging
Users who have tested the bypass charging feature have reported that it works seamlessly once enabled. In practice, the phone will show the status as “not charging” when the bypass feature is active, even though it is plugged into the charger. If the feature is turned off, the device will show “charging” as usual, indicating that the battery is being used to power the phone. This addition provides Pixel users with a useful tool to optimize their device’s battery health and ensure a longer lifespan for their phones.