Pixel 80% charge limit arrived with the December update, but there’s a catch

The December 2024 Pixel Drop, part of the Android 15 QPR1 (Quarterly Platform Release 1) update, has brought one of the most requested features to Pixel devices: the option to limit battery charging to 80%. This feature is designed to extend battery life and minimize wear, but there’s a small catch—it won’t work if your phone is powered off.

What is Android QPR1?

For those unfamiliar, Android’s QPR updates aren’t just your usual security patches. They’re Google’s way of rolling out meaningful improvements to Android throughout the year. Think of them as mini upgrades that go beyond fixing bugs. Here’s what they typically bring:

• New Features: QPR updates often introduce features tested during beta programs.
• UI Tweaks: Subtle refinements based on user feedback to improve design and usability.
• Bug Fixes & Security: More comprehensive fixes compared to monthly patches.
• Performance Enhancements: Tweaks to make your phone run smoother and more efficiently.

Pixel phones are usually the first to get these updates, and the Pixel Drop features—exclusive perks for Pixel users—are a big part of the excitement. The new 80% charge limit is one of these perks, and it’s already getting a lot of attention.

How does the 80% charge limit work?

Once you’ve updated to the December patch, you’ll find a new toggle in the Battery section of your Settings. Turning this on caps your phone’s charge at 80% instead of letting it hit 100%. Why does this matter? It’s all about battery health.

Smartphone batteries degrade over time, especially when frequently charged to full capacity or exposed to heat. By limiting the charge to 80%, the battery experiences less stress, which helps it last longer. If you’ve used devices from Samsung or OnePlus, you might already be familiar with this type of feature—it’s something Pixel users have been asking for, and it’s finally here.

The quirk: it doesn’t work when powered off

As handy as the 80% charge limit is, there’s a noticeable limitation: it doesn’t work when your phone is turned off. If you charge your Pixel while it’s powered down, it’ll still charge all the way to 100%, no matter what setting you’ve enabled.

This is likely because the feature is tied to Android’s operating system. Without the OS running, the phone can’t enforce the limit. For most people, who usually charge their phones while they’re on, this won’t be a big deal. But if you’re someone who prefers charging your phone while it’s off—like overnight or during long breaks—this could be a bit frustrating. It’s a contrast to devices like iPhones or Samsung Galaxy phones, which typically power on when plugged into a charger, making such limits easier to manage.