Pixel 9 now lets you check device temperature after ‘Troubleshooting’ update

Following an update to the Pixel Troubleshooting app/service, Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 phones now natively show “Device temperature.”

Go to Settings app > Battery > Battery diagnostics (at the bottom) > Phone is very warm. Previously, this page might just note how “All settings are optimized.”

Now, you get a Pixel temperature readout that updates in real-time. There are four color-coded “Labels”: Cold, Normal, Warm, and Elevated.

The following “descriptions”/messages are possible:

• “Your phone’s estimated temperature is lower than normal. It may shut down suddenly.”
• “This estimated temperature is typical with normal phone use.”
• “Your phone is slightly warm, but this is normal during use. To prevent further temperature increases, screen brightness and network speeds may be reduced.”
• “Your phone is slightly warm, but this is normal during use. To prevent further temperature increases, charging is paused, and screen brightness and network speeds may be reduced.”
• “Your phone’s estimated temperature is higher than normal. Your phone will try to cool down by temporarily limiting performance and pausing certain features.”

Google explains how “Device temperature is estimated based on multiple internal sensors.”  You might also see tips like:

• “To cool down your phone, provide airflow to your phone if possible”
• “Use only cases or covers made for your specific phone”
• “To help cool your phone, close apps that use a lot of power like games or video streaming. You can reopen them later.”
• “Protect your phone by putting it in an inner pocket close to your body, or using an insulated case”
• “Let your phone rest and warm up for a few minutes before doing demanding tasks like gaming or video calls. This helps keep it safe from damage.”

Update: Live temperature is available with version 1.0.693922709 of the Pixel Troubleshooting app on the Pixel 8 and 9 series. We’re seeing it on a Pixel 8a and 9 Pro running the stable Android 15 November release. This update is rolling out via the Play Store. (You might have to visit the listing directly.)

Pixel Troubleshooting was introduced with last year’s devices.

Old vs. new