Andrew Prag shares his incredible experience of finding his lost Google Pixel 6a after it was buried under snow for six months during a ski trip in France. Using location tracking, he discovered the phone intact, covered in mud but functional. The incident highlights the device’s durability, supported by rigorous testing by Google, despite not being designed for such extreme conditions. Currently, Google has released the Pixel 8a, with the Pixel 9a expected soon.
The Incredible Journey of a Lost Google Pixel 6a
In an intriguing tale shared on the official Google blog, user Andrew Prag recounts his unexpected adventure with a lost Google Pixel 6a. This smartphone went missing during a winter ski trip in France, and despite his attempts to locate it amidst the snowy mountains, heavy snowfall prevented him from finding it before he left. As a result, the device remained buried under layers of snow, rain, and mud for six long months.
Astonishing Discovery After Six Months
Upon returning to the scene half a year later, Prag’s family was doubtful about the possibility of recovering the lost phone. However, he was determined to try his luck. Utilizing location tracking, he successfully pinpointed the exact spot where his Pixel 6a lay hidden. “I found it nestled between grass and wildflowers, completely covered in mud,” he shared on the blog. To his amazement, when he plugged the smartphone into a power source, it powered up effortlessly, as if it had merely been resting in a drawer.
The Google Pixel 6a, a mid-range smartphone launched in mid-2022, had garnered praise in previous tests for its performance, though it wasn’t on par with flagship models like the complete Google Pixel lineup. Notably, this budget-friendly device boasts an IP67 rating, indicating it can withstand brief water immersion, although it’s not entirely waterproof. The protective case used in Prag’s case appears to have played a significant role in enhancing its durability.
This remarkable incident prompted Google to elaborate on the rigorous durability tests that its devices undergo. These tests encompass wear and drop assessments, as well as exposure to extreme temperatures. Devices are required to endure conditions ranging from -30 to +75 degrees Celsius. While snow isn’t specifically included in their testing protocols, Google employee Ajay Kamath speculated that the snow cover may have acted as an additional protective layer against the elements, while the phone’s battery charging circuits likely shut down, preserving its functionality.
“Our smartphones aren’t designed for such extreme scenarios, but the thoughtful engineering and extensive testing likely contributed to its survival,” remarked Kamath.
Currently, Google’s latest mid-range offering is the Pixel 8a, with the anticipated Pixel 9a already on the horizon.