Stories with Tag Battery

• Google Pixel 4a's old firmware is gone, trapping users on buggy battery update

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  Posted: 2025-01-29 14:59:59

  Verbose tl;dr

  Pixel 4a owners who haven't updated their phones are now stuck with a buggy December 2022 battery update as Google has removed older firmware versions from its servers. This means users can no longer downgrade to escape the battery drain and random shutdown issues introduced by the update. While Google has acknowledged the problem and promised a fix, there's no ETA, leaving affected users with no immediate solution. Essentially, Pixel 4a owners are forced to endure the battery problems until Google releases the corrected update.

  Owners of Google's budget-friendly Pixel 4a smartphone are facing a predicament stemming from a problematic battery update and Google's firmware management practices. A recent software update, intended to enhance battery performance, has inadvertently introduced a new set of issues for a subset of users. These issues manifest in various ways, most notably as significantly accelerated battery drain, rendering the device practically unusable for extended periods. The severity of the battery drain varies between affected users, with some experiencing a complete depletion of charge in a matter of hours.

  Compounding the problem is the unavailability of older firmware versions. Typically, when a software update introduces bugs, users can revert to a previous, stable version of the firmware. However, in this case, Google has removed the older firmware images from its official repository. This action, while possibly a standard procedure for older devices, effectively traps affected Pixel 4a owners on the flawed update with no readily available escape route. They are left with a device hampered by diminished battery life and no officially sanctioned method to rectify the situation.

  This situation underscores a potential downside to Google's firmware distribution model. While streamlined updates offer convenience, the removal of older firmware images can leave users vulnerable when updates introduce unexpected problems. Users are left reliant on Google to issue a timely fix, placing them in a position of technological limbo. The lack of a readily accessible rollback option leaves affected Pixel 4a owners with limited recourse, highlighting the importance of maintaining access to prior firmware versions, particularly for crucial updates such as those impacting battery performance. This predicament has generated considerable frustration among affected users, who are now left awaiting a corrective update from Google to resolve the battery drain issue.

  • Google
  • Pixel 4a
  • Firmware
  • Battery
  • update
  • bug
  • Android
  • Smartphone
  • Software
  • Tech
  • Mobile

  Summary of Comments ( 156 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42865619

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters generally express frustration and disappointment with Google's handling of the Pixel 4a battery issue. Several users report experiencing the battery drain problem after the update, with some claiming significantly reduced battery life. Some criticize Google's lack of communication and the removal of older firmware, making it impossible to revert to a working version. Others discuss potential workarounds, including custom ROMs like LineageOS, but acknowledge the risks and technical knowledge required. A few commenters mention the declining quality control of Pixel phones and question Google's commitment to supporting older devices. The overall sentiment is negative, with many expressing regret over purchasing a Pixel phone and a loss of trust in Google's hardware division.

  The Hacker News comments section for the submitted Android Central article, "Google Pixel 4a's old firmware is gone, trapping users on the buggy battery update," contains a moderate number of comments discussing the situation. Several users express frustration and disappointment with Google's handling of the Pixel 4a battery issue.

  A recurring theme is the lack of official acknowledgment or solution from Google. Commenters point out the silence from Google regarding the problem, despite widespread reports of significantly reduced battery life following the update. This lack of communication is seen as particularly concerning, leaving users feeling abandoned and unsure of whether a fix is forthcoming.

  Some users share their personal experiences with the battery drain issue, corroborating the article's claims. They detail how their phone's battery life has drastically decreased, impacting their daily usage. One commenter mentions attempting various troubleshooting steps, including factory resets, but to no avail. This reinforces the severity of the issue and the lack of effective workarounds.

  The unavailability of older firmware versions is a major point of contention. Commenters lament the inability to roll back to a previous, more stable firmware, effectively trapping them with the buggy update. This is contrasted with the practices of other manufacturers, like Apple, who often allow users to revert to older iOS versions if problems arise. The removal of older Pixel 4a firmware is viewed as a significant misstep by Google, limiting user options and exacerbating the battery issue.

  Several commenters express broader concerns about the decreasing quality and support of Pixel phones. They perceive a trend of declining software quality and customer service, leading to disillusionment with the Pixel brand. Some mention considering switching to other Android manufacturers or even to iPhones due to these perceived shortcomings.

  The overall sentiment in the comments section is one of negativity towards Google's handling of the Pixel 4a battery issue. Users express frustration with the lack of communication, the absence of a solution, and the inability to downgrade to older firmware. This experience appears to be eroding confidence in the Pixel brand for some users.

• Turn any bicycle electric

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  Posted: 2025-01-23 14:38:09

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  Dhruv Vidyut offers a conversion kit to electrify any bicycle. The kit includes a hub motor wheel, a battery pack, a controller, and all necessary accessories for installation. Their website highlights its ease of installation, affordability compared to buying a new e-bike, and customizability with different motor power and battery capacity options. It's marketed as a sustainable and practical solution for urban commuting and leisure riding, transforming a regular bicycle into a versatile electric vehicle.

  The webpage for Dhruv Vidyut, an Indian company specializing in electric bicycle conversion kits, presents a compelling proposition: transforming any conventional bicycle into an electrically-assisted one. The company asserts that their kit can be applied to a wide spectrum of bicycle types, regardless of frame design or existing components, thereby democratizing access to electric bicycle technology. The kit itself appears to consist of a hub motor, integrated within the front wheel, eliminating the need for complex drivetrain modifications. This integrated hub motor design simplifies the installation process, theoretically allowing even individuals with limited technical expertise to undertake the conversion.

  The webpage emphasizes the ease and speed of the conversion, suggesting that a bicycle can be transformed into an electric variant in a matter of minutes. This streamlined installation process is undoubtedly a key selling point, potentially attracting individuals who are intimidated by more complex mechanical tasks. While specific details regarding battery capacity, motor power, range, and charging times are not explicitly presented on the initial landing page, the implication is that the kit offers a practical and convenient solution for urban commuting and leisure cycling.

  The website's design focuses on visual appeal, showcasing dynamic imagery of bicycles equipped with the Dhruv Vidyut kit in various urban and rural settings. This visual storytelling approach aims to portray the versatility and adaptability of the conversion kit, suggesting its suitability for a broad range of riding environments. Furthermore, the company's name, "Dhruv Vidyut," which translates to "Polar Electric" or "North Star Electric," evokes a sense of innovation, reliability, and guidance, subtly reinforcing the brand's message of providing a clear path towards electric mobility. The overall presentation suggests a focus on user-friendliness and accessibility, aiming to empower individuals to embrace electric bicycle technology with minimal effort and technical knowledge.

  • electric bicycle
  • e-bike
  • bicycle conversion
  • DIY e-bike
  • electric bike kit
  • bicycle motor
  • electric motor
  • Battery
  • cycling
  • biking
  • Transportation
  • electric vehicles
  • EV
  • sustainable transportation
  • bicycle accessories

  Summary of Comments ( 54 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42804434

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users generally praised the simplicity and ingenuity of the electric bicycle conversion kit shown on the linked website. Several commenters appreciated the clear instructions and readily available parts, making it a seemingly accessible project for DIY enthusiasts. Some questioned the long-term durability, particularly regarding water resistance and the strength of the 3D-printed components. Others discussed potential improvements, like adding regenerative braking or using a different motor. A few pointed out the legality of such conversions, depending on local regulations regarding e-bikes. There was also discussion about the overall efficiency compared to purpose-built e-bikes and whether the added weight impacted the riding experience.

  The Hacker News post "Turn any bicycle electric" with the link to dhruvvidyut.co.in sparked a discussion with a moderate number of comments, mainly focusing on the practicality, cost, and existing alternatives to the presented DIY e-bike conversion kit.

  Several commenters questioned the overall cost-effectiveness of the project. They argued that while the author emphasizes affordability, the price of the components, especially the battery, could quickly add up, potentially exceeding the cost of pre-built e-bike conversion kits or even inexpensive complete e-bikes available on the market. Some users shared their experiences with similar projects, noting that unforeseen expenses and the time investment required for assembly often make buying a ready-made solution more appealing.

  Another recurring theme in the comments was the practicality of the friction-drive system employed in the DIY kit. Commenters expressed concerns about the efficiency and durability of such a system, particularly in wet weather or on challenging terrain. They pointed out the potential for slippage and wear on both the drive wheel and the bicycle tire. Some suggested that a mid-drive or hub-drive motor would be a more robust and efficient solution, albeit more complex to implement.

  A few comments also touched upon the legal aspects of e-bike conversions, particularly regarding motor power and speed limits. They advised readers to research local regulations before undertaking such projects to ensure compliance with the law.

  Some commenters appreciated the ingenuity and DIY spirit of the project, acknowledging its potential value for those with specific needs or a desire to tinker. However, the prevailing sentiment seemed to be one of cautious skepticism, with many users recommending thorough research and careful consideration of the costs and limitations before embarking on a similar endeavor. There was also a discussion around the potential noise generated by the friction drive system, with users expressing concerns about the high-pitched whine that can be characteristic of such designs. Finally, a few commenters suggested alternative DIY approaches using salvaged parts from old e-scooters or other electric vehicles as a potentially more cost-effective route to e-bike conversion.

• A 10-Year Battery for AirTag

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  Posted: 2024-12-18 18:17:17

  Verbose tl;dr

  ElevationLab introduces TimeCapsule, a protective case for Apple AirTags designed to last for the AirTag's entire lifespan. It incorporates a replaceable CR2032 battery, addressing the AirTag's limited battery life. Made of stainless steel with a cavity to improve signal strength, TimeCapsule includes a keyring and is designed to be more durable and easier to find in bags than the bare AirTag. It effectively transforms the AirTag into a key-sized tracker with a user-replaceable battery estimated to last about ten years.

  ElevationLab, a company known for its accessories for Apple products, has announced the "TimeCapsule," a meticulously engineered replacement battery compartment designed to significantly extend the lifespan of an Apple AirTag. Recognizing that AirTags are inherently disposable due to their sealed, non-replaceable battery, ElevationLab sought to create a solution for environmentally conscious consumers and those seeking long-term tracking solutions. The TimeCapsule boasts a remarkable projected lifespan of ten years, eliminating the need for frequent replacements and reducing electronic waste. This longevity is achieved through the utilization of a specialized low-power lithium thionyl chloride (LTC) battery chemistry known for its exceptional shelf life and stability. This chemistry, while offering extended operational duration, does necessitate a slightly larger form factor compared to the standard AirTag battery. However, ElevationLab has skillfully minimized the size increase, resulting in a form factor only 2.1mm thicker and 2mm wider than the original AirTag, a negligible difference considering the substantial lifespan extension.

  The TimeCapsule's design not only focuses on longevity but also on ease of use and maintainability. The battery compartment is readily accessible, allowing users to replace the LTC battery themselves with a standard CR2432 battery, readily available from various retailers. This user-replaceable design further contributes to the product's sustainability. Furthermore, the TimeCapsule is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity to match the impressive battery lifespan. The design incorporates a robust stainless steel shell that protects the internal components and complements the aesthetic of the AirTag, maintaining its sleek and minimalist appearance. The installation process is designed to be straightforward, allowing users to easily integrate the TimeCapsule with their existing AirTags without specialized tools or technical expertise. This considered approach reflects ElevationLab's commitment to providing practical and user-friendly solutions. The TimeCapsule represents a significant advancement in AirTag functionality, transforming it from a disposable tracking device into a sustainable, long-term solution.

  • AirTag
  • Battery
  • Long-lasting Battery
  • 10-Year Battery
  • TimeCapsule
  • ElevationLab
  • Battery Replacement
  • Find My
  • Apple
  • Accessories
  • IoT
  • Low Power
  • Ultra-low Power
  • Power Efficiency
  • CR2032
  • User-replaceable Battery
  • Crowdfunding
  • Product Announcement

  Summary of Comments ( 563 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42453207

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters are generally skeptical of the TimeCapsule's claimed 10-year battery life, with several pointing out the impracticality of such a long timeframe for a tracking device. Many suspect the battery will degrade significantly before the 10-year mark, rendering the device useless much sooner. Some users question the actual utility of the product, wondering about real-world scenarios where a decade-long tracking solution would be necessary or even desirable. Others express privacy concerns about the potential for long-term, unnoticed tracking. A few commenters mention the environmental impact of disposable electronics, especially given the long lifespan and specialized battery. Several suggest alternative solutions, including replaceable batteries or solar charging. Overall, the sentiment is one of cautious disbelief and concern over practical limitations and unintended consequences.

  The Hacker News post titled "A 10-Year Battery for AirTag" sparked a discussion with several interesting comments. Many commenters focused on the implications of a longer-lasting battery, particularly in the context of tracking stolen items.

  One compelling comment pointed out that the real issue with AirTags isn't battery life, but the fact that thieves can often quickly locate and disable them. A longer battery life wouldn't necessarily address this fundamental vulnerability. This commenter suggested that a more effective solution might be integrating AirTags more deeply into devices, making them harder to remove.

  Another commenter questioned the trade-offs associated with a 10-year battery. They speculated about the size and cost implications of such a battery, wondering if it would make AirTags significantly larger or more expensive. This raised a broader discussion about the optimal balance between battery life, size, and cost for tracking devices.

  Several comments highlighted the environmental impact of disposable batteries. While a 10-year lifespan would reduce battery waste, some commenters argued for rechargeable batteries as a more sustainable approach. They also discussed the potential for solar-powered AirTags as a longer-term solution.

  There was also a discussion about the feasibility of the claimed 10-year battery life. Some commenters expressed skepticism, suggesting that real-world usage patterns and environmental factors could significantly impact battery performance. They called for more transparency regarding the testing methodology used to arrive at the 10-year figure.

  Finally, some comments touched upon the privacy implications of long-term tracking devices. The possibility of someone secretly placing an AirTag with a 10-year battery on a person or vehicle raised concerns about potential misuse and the need for robust anti-stalking measures.