We already knew that the Pixelsnap Charger gets firmware updates, but Google has also created a dedicated site to manually install new releases.
Google says Pixelsnap Chargers will automatically and silently update as they charge your Pixel phones. Go to Settings > Connected devices and select a charger to check the firmware. (Version 1.51.0 is the latest release.)
Top comment by Omega192
Huh, so this is how I find out Chrome for Android finally added WebUSB support in v146. Glad to see it as I much prefer web tools like this than having to install an app for something I don't need to do often. This also opens up some other cool possibilities like:
Using the Android Flash Tool on one phone to flash another (It needs a mobile-friendly UI update but should still work with the "Desktop site" toggle)
Using WebADB to have access to ADB tools without installing anything
Using a phone or tablet along with MakeCode to program microcontrollers like the BBC micro:bit
Serial communication with an Arduino microcontroller
Also discovered that as of v138 CfA now supports WebSerial, though only with Bluetooth devices currently. This should mean the Pixel Buds webapp can work on any phone once they update it to no longer check for desktop Chrome. Here's hoping WebSerial over USB isn't far behind.
If you’re not using a Pixel device but have purchased the $39.99 Pixelsnap Charger, Google offers “Manual updates.” This approach involves plugging the USB-C end of the puck into an Android 16+ phone and visiting pixel.google.com/pixelsnap in mobile Chrome. (This won’t work on the desktop browser.)
After selecting the Pixelsnap Charger, you can check firmware versions and install by following the onscreen instructions.
These updates “ensure your Pixelsnap Charger performs at its best and maintains the latest Qi compatibility.”
Google updated the Pixelsnap support article with these details in the past three months.
More on Google Pixel:
- Google Store Certified Refurbished adds Pixel 8a, expands to Amazon
- Google Pixel rolls out ‘Transit mode’ and real-time At a Glance commute
- Google’s Gemini AI and Pixel phones are going to show up a lot during the 2026 World Cup
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