Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL: Top 10 Things to Do

When you take your Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL out of the box, you will see many innovations. In this guide, we’ll explain multiple settings to change or features to enable for a better experience. We’ll show you how to set up Pixel 2 and learn about your phone without reading the guide or going to the store for help.

Google’s new phone hit the shelves on October 19, and once you get it, you’ll have to prepare for the future. Grab a quality case from our recap below, learn about Android 8.0 Oreo, then do these 10 things to your Pixel 2. Oh, and don’t forget to use your free Google Home Mini.

We’re going to start using Google’s handy transfer tool that easily transfers your old phone to the new Pixel. Then install the fingerprint scanner and customize the phone according to your needs. These are the settings, controls, and tips you need to know to get the most out of your phone.

Transfer Data from Old Phone

The first thing all owners will want to do is transfer everything from their old phone. Google’s transfer tool works for data, apps, settings, contacts, calendar, icon embeds, photos or videos, and even text messages. It’s fast, easy, and there’s even a transfer tool adapter in every box.

You will receive a notification for this during your initial setup. If you skipped this, go to settings and you will see a reminder at the top of the settings menu. Press “Finish installation” and follow the on-screen instructions. You will need to plug the USB dongle included in the box into your Pixel 2. Next, connect a USB cable to it and connect the other end to your old phone. The adapter plugs into the new device.

This will instantly start the transfer service and will literally do all the work for you. It is a complete streaming package like Samsung SmartSwitch or Apple’s tools.

In the next step, you can customize what is transferred. Clear anything you don’t want to restore on the new device like certain apps or texts and then hit the start button. My Galaxy S8 transferred in less than 10 minutes. Then it will take another 5-10 minutes to download and install all your apps, depending on the number of apps you have installed. You can continue to use the Pixel until the restore is complete.

Once done, unplug the cable and start using your new Pixel 2. Google’s transfer tool also restored all my app icons to the home screen. Convenience at its best.

Set Lock Screen Security (Fingerprint Scanner)

Next, you’ll want to secure your device and any important information it contains. By now you should be familiar with setting a lock screen password, pattern, pin or fingerprint. If not, here’s what you need to know.

Google calls it Pixel Imprint and you can find it below. It only takes 20 seconds to complete. Start by inserting a needle, then tap the sensor six times to register a print. We recommend doing both index fingers for the best setup. Check out “Smart Lock” while you’re here and you’ll be glad you did.

The whole process is fast, easy and safe. Now your device is ready to use and protected from prying eyes or theft.

Customize Active Edge (Squeeze Sides)

If you don’t know, try pinching the edges of your Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL. Google calls it Active Edge, which is a shortcut to quickly launch Google Assistant. Launch Assistant and take advantage of everything it has to offer.

However, a few more options for Active Edge are hidden in the settings menu. Google allows us to turn it on to work even when the screen is off. You can then turn on a setting that lets you mute calls by pressing the sides of the phone.

go to Or hit the top search bar and type Active Edge. Adjust the spin sensitivity and let it run when the screen is off or mute calls. To turn these features on, simply flip the switch.

Turn On Notification LED

Yes, the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have a notification LED. It’s disabled out of the box, but we can turn it on. You will then see a flashing light for incoming calls, texts, emails and other notifications. A useful feature that most people love.

Go to settings and go to Apps & notifications then select Notifications and turn on the option labeled Blinking Light. Or just search and open.

Customize Your Quick Setting Shortcuts

Pulling down the notification bar has a handy row of six icons called App Shortcuts. Quickly switch or access your WiFi, Bluetooth or turn on a flashlight. Pull down twice and you will see nine shortcuts in expanded view. From there, tap the Pen icon next to the settings icon to edit and customize your app shortcuts.

Now, hold and drag any icon to rearrange your list. There are 15 quick settings to choose from. The next time you swipe down on the notification bar, you’ll see six of your preferred ones for quick and easy access.

Toggle Always On Display

Last year, the original Pixel had Ambient Display, where you can see information at a glance when you pick up or touch the screen. Information such as time, battery level or incoming notifications. The Pixel 2 doesn’t have an Always On display like Samsung or LG. In a low power state, it gives you helpful information 24/7 even with the screen off.

And while that does use some battery life, it’s only a few percent off an entire 8-hour workday. That’s why we recommend leaving it on. It’s a useful feature that many can’t live without. Turn the Always On display on and off.

Do Not Disturb and Adjust Night Light

One of our favorite features is Do Not Disturb. To avoid interruptions or waking up, turn the phone completely silent or vibrate at night.

Enter and take advantage of this useful feature. You can set exceptions, allow certain contacts or alarms through the silent barrier, and even prevent your screen from turning on at night and illuminating the room by blocking visual disturbances.

In addition, you can choose a program that suits your needs. Then the phone will automatically turn on DnD on weekdays, but may keep sounds on during the weekend. Choose the best for you.

Another idea is to install the Night Light. Come in. This turns off the blue LEDs on the screen at night and adds a red tint to the screen. This prevents eye strain, helping users fall asleep more easily. Studies have shown that this helps people fall asleep faster at night, too. Set a schedule or let Google turn on with sunrise and sunset.

Unlock the New Now Playing Feature

Every Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL basically has Shazam or Soundhound built in. Google calls this feature “Now Playing” and you’ll see a small notification at the bottom of your lock screen if music is playing. If you like music turn it on and enjoy.

Go and open

The phone doesn’t listen to everything around us and instead uses a database to find the artist and track. Now Playing works offline and never sends songs or speeches to Google. It is completely safe and gives information about the song without you asking.

Quick Launch Camera

Most people know about this feature by now, but if you don’t, you will love it. Quickly double-tap the power button on the side of the phone. Whether you’re using an app on the home screen or your Pixel 2 screen is off, you’ve got everything. This instantly launches the camera in under a second. Then take a photo with the impressive Pixel camera.

The first time you do this, the Pixel will ask if you want to keep Quick Launch enabled, so say yes or no. Additionally, when the camera is on, swing your wrist back and forth to easily switch to the front-facing camera. You’re welcome.

Install Android Pay

While we’re here, we recommend owners to set up Android Pay as well. It works just like Apple Pay and lets you swipe your phone to pay while you’re out and about instead of carrying a wallet. Works with Android Pay anywhere with Tap-n-Pay.

Find the icon or download Android Pay, launch the app, add a credit card and start enjoying mobile payments.

Other Details and Final Thoughts

Note that the Pixel has tons of neat features that are part of Android 8.0 Oreo. For App Shortcuts similar to Apple’s 3D Touch, press and hold app icons or look for notification dots in app icons that alert you to incoming content.

Autofill is another neat new feature where apps will autofill your name, email, address, phone number or username and password for you. It’s like Autofill in Google Chrome, but now works on the whole device.

Finally, don’t forget to buy a Pixel 2 XL screen protector, download a number of your favorite apps, and explore the settings menu to learn about your phone. If you have any questions, there is a dedicated 24/7 customer support option in the settings. Instantly call, email, or even chat with a customer support representative for help if you need it.

A few other ideas are to set mobile data limits, test how great the camera is, and try out the new Portrait mode on the camera. As an added bonus, try changing your wallpaper to a dark or light image and watch your screen buttons, notification bar, and Google search bar change completely. Google added a built-in theme to the Pixel 2, but it’s the only way to get themes.

Before you go, check out these 10 Google Pixel 2 features you’ll love and enjoy everything your new phone has to offer.