You just got the Nexus 7 out of the box and you want to make sure you set up the Nexus 7 correctly. If so, this is the place to be.
While Google does a pretty good job of guiding users through the initial setup, we’ll join you with a quick look at what you need to do to set up the Nexus 7, linking it to your Gmail account for email, calendar and contact information. and get you ready to watch movies, read eBooks and use apps from the Google Play Store
In addition to the basic setup, we’ll cover how to use parental controls on the Nexus 7, which can help prevent children from using certain apps and other useful features.
Nexus 7 setup only takes 15-30 minutes and you will need a WiFi connection to complete the setup.
Install Nexus 7 in about 15 minutes.
After installation, be sure to check out some of the best Nexus 7 2013 cases and a collection of Nexus 7 2013 accessories to complete the user experience.
Nexus 7 Setup
This Nexus 7 setup guide will focus on the new Nexus 7 2013 model, but for users who get an older model as a deal, the process should be almost the same.
Open Nexus 7. Choose the correct language. You can change this later if needed. Press the Ok button at the bottom of the screen.
Select a WiFi network and enter the password to connect and start the Nexus 7 setup and login.
If you have a Google Account, you can sign in here. This uses the same password as your Gmail account. If you don’t have a Google account, it will walk you through the process.
Sign in to your Google Account when prompted and accept the terms and conditions. If you use additional security, you may need to use the web to log in. You can add additional Gmail accounts and profiles later. If you are giving the tablet to a child, you should take this time to set up your main account.
Next, decide if you want to restore from your Google account and keep this device in backup. Doing so will download your apps and data from an Android phone or previous tablet. Also choose whether to allow the use of location (which we recommend for most users) and choose our Google Play related email or emails.
If you chose to restore, this will happen now and may take a few minutes. Once complete, enter owner information as prompted. This will complete the initial setup and start the Nexus 7.
Tap on Google Play Store from here to confirm and launch any app updates to ensure you are running the latest apps from Google.
Nexus 7 Security
Next up, we’ll cover setting up some basic Nexus 7 security. On the Nexus 7 you now have your email address, contacts and calendar. And depending on what else you have set up, it may soon have other sensitive information for Tap & Pay besides your credit card. In short, it’s worth at least putting a simple pattern password on it. You’ll also need it if you want to do basic parental controls.
Pull down the top right edge of the screen to access the quick settings. Ignore the toggles for now and tap on Settings. Next, tap Security and then Screen lock. Select something other than the slide to make signing in more difficult.
By default Android Device Manager is installed and running; this is similar to the Find My Nexus service that will help you track down a lost or stolen Nexus 7.
Nexus 7 Parental Controls
Go back to settings and tap users to turn on Nexus 7 parental controls. Tap on Add a user and then select a restricted profile. This is how Google handles parental controls on the Nexus 7.
From here, you can enable access to certain apps installed on the device, as well as Google services such as Play Movies & TV, and set age ratings for certain content by tapping the settings icon next to the toggle buttons. Since Play Store is not available, parents will need to install apps on their account and open them for the user. Gmail is not supported in this mode, so it is not suitable for children who need access to email.
Using the Nexus 7
After installing, you can start using Nexus 7. Go to the Google Play Store to download apps like games, Netflix, and productivity apps. Play Magazines, Play Movies 7 TV and Play Books allow you to buy entertainment from Google, but you can also use Amazon and other services by downloading more apps from the Google Play Store.
Here are some Nexus 7 apps that we recommend you download sooner or later.
That’s it for the Nexus 7 setup. Enjoy.
