Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Phones
  3. Mobile
  4. Evergreens

Does the Google Pixel 6a have wireless charging? Know this before buying

Add as a preferred source on Google

For a more budget-friendly device, the Google Pixel 6a is packed with features. Ever since the introduction of the Pixel A series, Google has impressed its fans by offering a cheaper version of its flagship smartphone line that still holds its own against other competing devices despite the reduced price. The Pixel 6a is no exception, but despite how much it’s able to do, it doesn’t have all of the features you would expect from a regular Pixel 6 or 6 Pro — namely, wireless charging.

As phones have become essential devices for many people across the world, battery features like fast and wireless charging are hotly requested when new devices launch. A big question many have been asking about the Pixel 6a is in regards to its wireless charging options. Previous Pixel A phones haven’t supported it, but as Google’s budget devices tout more impressive specs with each release, some are hoping that the 6a will be the first in the series to have it.

Someone holding the Google Pixel 6a. The display is on and showing the lock screen.
Joe Maring/Digital Trends / Digital Trends

The short answer is no, the Google Pixel 6a doesn’t have any wireless charging capabilities. This may be a disappointment for many looking to charge without needing a cable and adapter, but it shouldn’t be a huge surprise. As mentioned above, none of the previous Pixel A devices has supported it, so if the 6a were to be the first, it would likely have been a big part of the smartphone’s marketing.

Recommended Videos

No wireless charging on the 6a could be a problem

Wireless charging would have been a huge convenience here, especially considering that the 4410mAh battery is really only good for one day of use. Unfortunately, recharging the Pixel 6a is a bit of a hassle. The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro disappointed in terms of charging speeds, and the 6a is arguably worse. The Pixel 6a takes around two hours to get a full charge after being completely drained. Despite Google’s “fast charging” marketing for the smartphone, it only supports 18W charging, which is pretty behind the curve when compared to other competing phones.

Because the Pixel 6a doesn’t support wireless charging or fast charging, its battery life could be a sticking point for some. While that aspect of the 6a is far less than ideal, there’s still plenty about it to love. The display is solid, the cameras are great, and Google’s Tensor chipset is extremely capable. When considering the $449 price, it’s hard to be mad at the Pixel 6a for having to cut corners in some areas — even when wireless charging would have been amazing to have.

Peter Hunt Szpytek
A podcast host and journalist, Peter covers mobile news with Digital Trends and gaming news, reviews, and guides for sites…
Apple’s latest Sports app update is a win for soccer fans everywhere
From the Swiss Super League to starting lineups, here's everything new in Apple Sports' latest update built entirely around soccer fans.
Apple Sports latest App Store update

The World Cup trophy's already been handed out, but Apple isn't done pleasing soccer fans just yet. Apple Sports got updated to version 4.2 today, and the whole update is built around one sport (via 9to5Mac).

Since its debut, Apple Sports has steadily picked up features like live play-by-play and standings, along with deeper match insights. On the other hand, the company’s broader sports push has expanded through MLS Season Pass and exclusive content on Apple TV.

Read more
Samsung’s secret AI chip could finally cool down Exynos phones
Samsung's GAIA AI chip is landing in laptops first, but its shared DNA with Exynos hints at a real fix for phones down the line.
Samsung Exynos chip illustration.

If you've ever owned an Exynos-powered Galaxy phone, you already know the drill: heavy tasks like capturing back-to-back pictures or photos for a while, heavy gaming, or rendering videos turn your device into a hand warmer. 

In such a situation, the battery bar drops faster than usual as well. Turns out, Samsung might be working on the fix, and it's coming in a way nobody expected.

Read more
Adobe’s Project Indigo camera app can now edit and critique your photos with AI
The new AI Playground feature helps you remove distractions, restyle shots, and offers photo critiques, but Adobe is only letting a small group of users try it for now.
Adobe Project Indigo AI Playground featured

Adobe's Project Indigo has spent the past year building a reputation as one of the more serious camera apps on iPhone, offering full manual controls and a natural, SLR-style look instead of the overprocessed images most phone camera apps produce by default. Now Adobe is testing a new set of features called AI Playground that push the app well beyond photography.

New editing tools and a critic

Read more