The recent December 2025 update for the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro has caused significant charging issues, leading to frustration among users. Many owners report that the update has disrupted the compatibility between the Pixel 10 series and the Pixel Stand (Gen 2), rendering this previously functional accessory ineffective for charging.
When the Pixel 10 series launched earlier this year, it introduced the new magnetic “Pixelsnap” (Qi2) standard. Google’s official documentation stated that older models of the Pixel Stand, including both Gen 1 and Gen 2, were not officially compatible due to changes in charging coil alignment. Despite this, many users found that the Pixel Stand 2 charged their devices reliably until the December update.
Reports indicate that since the update, users have been experiencing a loss of charging functionality. When placing a Pixel 10 Pro on the stand, the device initially recognizes the charger but then disconnects almost immediately. The LED indicator on the Pixel Stand flashes orange or white, indicating alignment errors or the detection of foreign objects.
One user noted, “Updated yesterday and now the phone will not charge and the light on the stand keeps blinking red.” Others have echoed similar frustrations, stating that their devices alternate between recognizing and losing the charge.
Troubleshooting recommendations from Google Support, including factory resets and reinstalling the Pixel Stand app, have not resolved the issue for many users. The problems appear linked to an increased sensitivity in the charging handshake or Foreign Object Detection (FOD) algorithms introduced in the new software. Some users discovered that removing phone cases allowed their devices to charge again, suggesting that the update may have altered tolerances for wireless charging efficiency.
This has raised speculation that the update might have been designed to encourage users to purchase Google’s new magnetic Pixelsnap chargers. The issue seems specific to the Pixel 10 series, as users of the Pixel 9 and older devices report that their Pixel Stands continue to function correctly after the update.
The timing of these issues has led some owners to question whether the software update was intentionally crafted to enforce the incompatibility warnings Google issued at launch. One user expressed concern, asking, “Is this to force people to buy the Pixel Snap?” This sentiment underscores the frustration felt by users who now find their $79 accessory rendered ineffective.
While Google never officially guaranteed support for the Pixel Stand with the Pixel 10, disabling a feature that worked reliably for months is likely to upset loyal customers. Many believe the situation is an unintended consequence of safety adjustments made to the Qi2 charging profiles in the December update, rather than a deliberate action to limit functionality.
Until Google addresses the change or reverts the sensitivity thresholds, Pixel 10 owners who relied on their Pixel Stands for nightly charging may need to seek alternative solutions or consider removing their cases before charging.
Users with Pixel 10 and Pixel Stand combinations are encouraged to share their experiences, as the community seeks clarity on the situation and potential resolutions.
