Google's Pixel Feature Drop was recently launched to better optimize usage for Pixel users and improve smart features. One of the features is Adaptive charging, which allows your device to slowly top up overnight in order to utilize and preserve battery life. 

According to Google's Support Document, "it dynamically controls how quickly a Pixel device charges... Set an alarm and the Adaptive Charging will work its magic". The feature is accessible in Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, and Pixel 5 devices. 

Google Launch The Pixel 3 XL
(Photo : Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 09: The new Google Pixel 3 sits on display at a Google hardware launch event at The Yard on October 9, 2018 in London, England. The tech giant have today launched the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL phones, Pixel Slate and Google Home Hub.

According to XDA Developers, the philosophy is to charge your phone over a long period of time, rather than by charging it fully at once, which becomes unhealthy to the battery life. 

Users are ecstatic to learn about new feature, and are considered one of the most significant. However, numerous complaints arise as the feature only favors specific time frames and seems to be more restrictive than user-friendly.

Google Adaptive Charging Feature Turns out to be Restrictive

The caveat is that the brilliant feature doesn't work at all times. A Google support document through 9to5Google explains that in order to use the Adaptive Charger mode, your active alarm should be set only between a specific time frame: 5:00AM-10:00AM. What's more demanding is that your device must be put on a charger past 9:00PM. Otherwise, your device charges in default mode. 

To many, the restrictive rules seem to be discriminatory of those who have different body clocks/ sleep-wake schedules. Some are working on a night shift and don't easily have the luxury to wake up as the sun rises. 

Reddit users have been discussing Google's dysfunctional Adaptive Charging Feature. Some users agree the feature doesn't work exactly on when it's set to work, but spikes on certain hours. See the reddit comment below.

Google Adaptive Charging Feature: Only Works During Certain Hours?
(Photo : Screenshot: Comment by i/StinkyTofuHF on Reddit)
A Reddit User i/StinkyTofuHF posted his Pixel 4XL's Adaptive Charging Mode has a problem

Other updates

Certain upgrades by Google seem to be offering features that don't work exactly as promised, just like the latest software update that distrubed the Astrophotography feature.

See moreGoogle Camera Update Takes away Wide-Angle Astrophotography Feature from Pixel Phones

Apple also provides its users a similar feature called Optimized Battery Charging mode, wherein your device "learns" from your charging routine. It typically waits for you to finish charging past 80% until you need to use your device again. So far, iOS users aren't making a fuss on discussion platforms online. 

In the near future, it is hoped that Google can consider users' complaints, especially that the Adaptive Charging feature can be a very helpful tool to utilize- hopefully by everyone. 

See related ArticleAndroid and Google Pixel Updated With Bedtime Feature to Fight Growing Insomnia

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Written by Nikki Delgado

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