In just a couple of weeks, Google is predicted to finally launch what might be its most enjoyable Pixel phone yet. Before that happens, however, it’s just about pushing its 2020 5G phones off the stage, leaving the Pixel 5a (5G) because the sole remnant of that past (the non-5G Pixel 4a remains around, curiously). That’s well and good for people who aren’t curious about the Pixel 6. Still, unfortunately, the mid-range 5G Pixel phone is seemingly experiencing several problems, which will hopefully be fixed with software updates.
Early in its lifetime, the Pixel 5a was already reported exhibiting overheating issues associated with its otherwise capable camera. Although it doesn’t seem consistent, several owners have reported and confirmed that the phone issues an overheating warning, mostly when recording at 4K 60fps and sometimes even with just 1080p at 30fps. That problem won’t be limited to the cameras only.
Android Central notes several anecdotal experiences with the Pixel 5a (5G) overheating under various conditions. Those include taking a bunch of photos and short videos, some gaming, and even browsing Reddit. Phones getting warm under those circumstances are normal, but becoming extremely popular or triggering those warning notifications aren’t.
Some note how similar the Pixel 5a is to the Pixel 5, both in specs and internal design. It’s perhaps no coincidence, then, that the Pixel 5 has also been reported to get quite the standard levels of warmth while in use. That, unfortunately, could hint at quite just software issues but a design flaw.
Aaaaand yep, I'm seeing a weird touch thing near the bottom of the screen on my #Pixel5a unit, too…. https://t.co/Osi4vrRmN2 pic.twitter.com/mvMiQs603u
— Ara Wagoner📱🏰🎶😷 (@AraWagco) August 24, 2021
Google is reportedly already looking into the matter, though it’s uncertain whether it’ll declare it to be a bug or, a bit like the Pixel 5 “screen gap,” declares it to be an intentional feature. The Pixel 5a is allegedly also exhibiting some ghost touches demonstrated above, though that one seems to be less widespread than the overheating cases.
