Phandroid: 12 First things every Pixel 2 owner should do

The Pixel 2 isn't as flashy as the Pixel 2 XL, but it may actually be the better Pixel device this year. We've already shared our battery life first impressions and a bunch of camera samples. Now, it's time to get into the tips and tricks. If you just got the Pixel 2 or are thinking of picking one up, here are the first things to do!

Transfer data from your old phone

One of the nicest features of the Pixel phones is the ability to easily transfer content from an old device. The Pixel 2 comes with an adapter in the box to make this process super easy. All you'll need is your old phone and the cable that came with it. Depending on your previous phone, here's what you can restore:

Android devices can transfer apps, app data, contacts, settings, Google accounts, music, photos, and SMS.
iOS devices can transfer iCloud events, contacts, iMessage/SMS, music, photos, and videos.

You'll be prompted to restore data when you're setting up the phone for the first time.

Plug the old USB cable into the adapter
Plug the adapter into the Pixel
Instructions will pop up on the screen
Follow the steps to move your stuff

For more, discuss transferring data at the Pixel 2 forum

Set up the fingerprint scanner

The Pixel 2 has a fingerprint scanner on the back (where it should be). It's one of the fastest and most reliable fingerprint scanners on the market. You should definitely set it up and use it as your security method. It can also be used for mobile payments and Play Store purchases.

Go to Settings > Security & location > Pixel Imprint
If you haven't already set up a lock screen pattern, PIN, or password, you'll be asked to set one up
Tap +Add fingerprint
Choose which finger to use, touch the scanner until it vibrates, then lift your finger
Repeatedly touch the scanner until the fingerprint has been successfully recorded
After you've successfully recorded your fingerprint, tap Add Another or Done

For more, discuss fingerprint scanner at the Pixel 2 forum

Launch Google Assistant by squeezing

One of the unique features of the Pixel 2 is the ability to literally squeeze the phone to launch Assistant. The sides of the phone are sensitive to pressure. It's a very quick and easy way to talk to Google Assistant.

Go to Settings > System
The go to Language, input & gestures > Advanced
Select Active Edge
Adjust the squeeze sensitivity to your liking
Toggle on/off Squeeze for Assistant
Toggle on/off Allow when screen is off
Toggle on/off Squeeze for silence

For more, discuss Active Edge at the Pixel 2 forum

Get unlimited photo and video backups for free

A big benefit of owning a Pixel phone is the free unlimited Google Photos backup you get. All owners of the Pixel phones, including the Pixel 2 of course, can enjoy the exclusive benefit of unlimited original quality photos and 4K video backups. All completely free. All you have to do is open the Google Photos app and opt-in. Seriously, this is an awesome feature. Don't miss out.

Use the Ambient Display for quick info

The Pixel 2 has an always-on display that Google calls "Ambient Display." It shows the time, date, and notifications when the display is off. This is handy for getting a quick look at what's happening on your phone without unlocking the screen. It can be on all the time or only when notifications arrive.

Go to Settings > Display
Select Advanced > Ambient display
Toggle it Always on, enabled Double-tap to check phone, and New notifications

For more, discuss Ambient Display at the Pixel 2 forum

Use the fingerprint scanner to show notifications

A neat trick on the Pixel 2 is the ability to swipe the fingerprint sensor to open or close the notification shade. It works exactly like swiping your finger on the screen to pull down the notification shade. Swipe down on the sensor to pull it down, swipe up to put it away.

Go to Settings > System
Select Languages, input & gestures
Select Advanced (Gestures on newer versions)
Tap Swipe fingerprint for notifications
Toggle the switch on

For more, discuss fingerprint gestures at the Pixel 2 forum

Always know what song is playing in the background

The Pixel 2 has a very neat feature called "Now Playing." This feature will automatically scan for music playing in your surroundings and display the song info on your lock screen and notifications. It's basically like Shazam, but working all the time so you don't have to think about it.

Go to Settings > Sound
Tap Advanced (skip this step on newer versions)
Select Now Playing
Toggle the switch on/off

Change the theme by changing the wallpaper

The Pixel 2 doesn't support themes in the traditional sense, but you can change the "theme" with different wallpapers. A dark wallpaper will make the notification shade, app drawer, and other elements black, whereas a light wallpaper will make them white. There's not an exact science to this. You'll just have to test some different wallpapers to get the color you want.

Long-press on the home screen
Select Wallpaper
Choose a wallpaper and apply it

Take a photo with portrait mode

One of the new features on the Pixel 2 camera is called Portrait Mode. Basically, it applies a heavy blur to the background and makes the foreground object pop. This create a very cool effect that makes the photo look like it was taken with a high-end camera. You can use it with the front and rear camera.

Open the Camera app
Tap the menu icon in the top left
Select Portrait
Tap on the subject to focus
Tap the shutter button
The photo will process quickly and be ready to view

For more, discuss Portrait Mode at the Pixel 2 forum

Protect the phone with a case

Everybody knows there's nothing worse that breaking a brand new phone. The Pixel 2 is a gorgeous piece of technology with glass on the front and back. The last thing you want to do is crack the glass or get a nasty scratch. One of the first things you should do is buy a case for it. Here are a few to choose from:

For more, discuss accessories at the Pixel 2 forum

Download the best apps and games

The best phone in the world is pretty boring if you don't have great apps and games to use. We've compiled tons of helpful guides for finding the best apps and games in the Play Store. Before you dive in and rummage around, you'll want to check out these lists first.

Install the Forums for Android app

This list is a great starting point for Pixel 2 users, but there's a lot more you should know. You can download the Forums forAndroid app and you'll automatically be added to the Pixel 2 forum. There you will find more helpful tips and other users like you. It's easy to ask for help and get answers. Here are a few threads to get you started:

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Wednesday, November 1, 2017

12 First things every Pixel 2 owner should do