Google’s PixelSnap Ring Stand Issues Highlight Terrible Qi2 Timing

Google’s shiny new PixelSnap Ring Stand is already falling apart, literally. Just weeks after launch, users are reporting that screws holding the magnetic accessory together are coming loose, with some falling out completely. But here’s the kicker: this hardware failure comes at the worst possible time for Google,. The company recently went all-in on Qi2 after previously claiming there were “no tangible benefits” to the standard when it skipped it on the Pixel 9.

Hardware Issues Surface Almost Immediately

The problems started showing up within days of users getting their hands on the PixelSnap Ring Stand. Multiple Reddit reports describe screws near the hinge becoming loose to the point where the accessory can no longer hold the weight of a Pixel 10. One user claims their Ring Stand became unusable after just 48 hours, while another had screws fall out entirely and get trapped between the case and accessory, leaving scratches behind.

There’s a temporary fix that involves using a T1 Torx bit to tighten the loose screws , but finding the right tool isn’t easy since even a T1 doesn’t feel like a perfect fit. More concerning is that this suggests the issue might return over time.

The Overheating Problem Nobody Saw Coming

The loose screws aren’t even the worst part. Users charging their phones wirelessly while the Ring Stand is attached report dangerously high temperatures. In some cases hot enough to burn skin. One Pixel 10 Pro owner who left their phone on Google’s own Pixel Stand 2 overnight said it was “like touching the side of a kettle” the next morning.

This creates an awkward situation where Google’s first-party accessory doesn’t play nice with Google’s first-party charger. Users must choose: charge wirelessly or use the stand, but not both.

If you’re experiencing issues with your PixelSnap Ring Stand, Google hasn’t issued an official response yet. For now, the safest bet is to remove the accessory before wireless charging and consider whether the loose screw fix is worth the hassle. There are plenty of third-party alternatives that might be more reliable until Google sorts this out.

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