34 Pixel Settings You Should Change Right Away

Google’s Pixel phones have some of the smartest features in Android—but many aren’t on by default. Flip these switches to get the most out of your device.

Essential Call Features

1. Call Screening – Block robocalls automatically (Phone app > Settings > Call Screen).

2. Scam Detection – Alerts you if a caller seems suspicious.

3. Hold for Me – Pixel waits on hold for you and alerts when a rep returns.

4. Direct My Call – Live transcription + buttons for navigating phone menus.

5. Call Notes – Transcribe and summarize your calls.

6. Voice Translate – Real-time translation on calls (Pixel 10+).

7. Take a Message – Smarter voicemail with live transcription.

Smarter Everyday Tools

1. Now Playing – Auto-identifies songs around you (Settings > Sound & vibration).

2. Face Detection Auto-Rotate – Stops accidental rotations in bed.

3. Adaptive Timeout & Screen Attention – Screen stays on only when you’re looking at it.

4. Assistant Voice Typing – Accurate voice-to-text with hands-free commands.

Safety First

1. Satellite SOS – Message emergency services when offline (Pixel 9+).

2. Car Crash Detection – Auto-calls emergency services in accidents.

3. Crisis Alerts – Notifications about natural disasters nearby.

Security Boosts

1. Theft Protection – Locks phone if stolen or taken offline.

2. Identity Check – Extra fingerprint/face scan for sensitive actions.

3. Remote Lock – Lock your phone from any browser.

4. Find Hub (offline tracking) – Locate your Pixel even if it’s offline.

5. Advanced Protection – Extra-strong security, blocks unsafe networks/sites.

6. Private Space – Separate, hidden profile for sensitive apps.

Pixel-Specific Extras

1. Magic Cue – Auto-surfaces info like flight numbers in calls/messages.

2. Always-On Display – See clock, date, weather at a glance.

3. Lock Screen Customization – Adjust clock, notifications, and shortcuts.

4. Change Power Button Behavior – Restore the classic power menu.

5. AV1 Video Recording – Save storage with a modern codec (Pixel 10).

6. Video Boost – Cloud-enhanced video quality (Pixel 8 Pro+).

7. Disable Pro Res Zoom – Avoid AI-filled super-zoom photos.

8. Disable Camera Coach – Turn off automatic photo “tips.”

9. Bedtime Mode – Schedule grayscale display + snore/cough tracking.

Handy Extras

1. Clear Calling – Cuts background noise during calls.

2. Notification History – View swiped-away alerts from the last 24 hours.

3. Adaptive Vibration – Auto-adjusts vibration strength based on context.

4. Battery Percentage & Adaptive Charging – Show exact % and extend battery health.

5. Flip to Shhh – Face your phone down to activate Do Not Disturb.

6. Live Translate – Auto-translate texts and chats.

7. Auto-Keyboard in App Drawer – Open the keyboard instantly when searching apps.