Google class action claims recent software removed some PIxel phones’ ability to access 5G

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Google Pixel class action lawsuit overview: 

• Who: Steve Nichols filed a class action lawsuit against Google LLC. 
• Why: Nichols claims Google advertised that its older model Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a cell phones would be able to access 5G broadband networks but has since implemented software that removed the phones’ ability to access it. 
• Where: The class action lawsuit was in Colorado federal court. 
• What are my options: OnePlus offers consumer electronics alternatives to Google.

Google removed the ability of its Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a cell phones to access 5G broadband networks, a new class action lawsuit alleges.

Plaintiff Steve Nichols claims Google recently implemented a software that removed the older Pixel phones’ ability to access 5G networks, despite originally advertising that they would be able to. 

Nichols argues Google is employing what is known as “planned obsolescence” by eliminating the ability to access 5G for the older Pixel models, while its newer Pixel phones remain able to do so. 

“Some suggest that Google may have deliberately waited until after its efforts of encouraging users to upgrade to newer Pixel models, despite those users’ phones working without issues,” the Google class action states. 

Nichols wants to represent a Colorado class and multi-state consumer fraud class of individuals who have purchased a Google Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, or Pixel 5a cell phone during the statute of limitations. 

Process to recover ability to access 5G network on impacted Pixel phone models is ‘complicated,’ says class action

Nichols claims that, while it is possible to restore access to 5G networks for the older Pixel phone models originally capable of it, the process to do so is “complicated and not capable of being implemented by the typical user.” 

“This requires downgrading the firmware, unlocking the SIM card, and manipulating all sorts of internal software code,” the Google class action states. 

Nichols claims Google is guilty of fraud, unjust enrichment, negligent misrepresentation, and breach of contract, and of violating the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, various state consumer fraud acts, and the Colorado Consumer Protection Act. 

Plaintiff is demanding a jury trial and requesting declaratory and injunctive relief along with an award of monetary, statutory, and/or punitive damages for himself and all class members. 

A separate class action lawsuit was filed against Google in February by a consumer arguing the company falsely advertised the charging capabilities of its Pixel 6 cell phone.

Have you purchased a Google Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, or Pixel 5a cell phone? Let us know in the comments! 

The plaintiff is represented by Spencer Sheehan of Sheehan & Associates, P.C. 

The Google Pixel class action lawsuit is Nichols, et al. v. Google LLC, Case No. 1:23-cv-01022, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.

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