Googles new Pixel phones come with some great new features.
Googles new smart Assistant, unlimited cloud storage for photos and video, and more are all rolled in.
you’re free to also use it onthe upcoming Google Home speakerand Googlesnew messaging app Allo.
So, its a little weird Google locked it to a single phone.
Weve put togetheran in-depth guide herethat walks you through the steps.
The technique involves tricking your equipment into identifying as a Pixel XL instead of whichever model you have.
Fortunately, this shouldnt affect day-to-day usage of your rig.
Thats a pretty huge deal, since most photo backup services have some pretty big caveats.
Amazonsbrand new Family Vaulteven lets you share that unlimited storage space with up to five other people.
1TB isnt a lot, but its a handy backup if youre hitting the limit on the other two.
Dropbox canautomatically upload any photo or videoto your account, regardless of its size.
Your space can be fairly limited, but fortunatelythere are plenty of ways to get more.
Between these three, it’s possible for you to probably backup just about anything.
Googles unlimited backup might be convenient, but its far from your only option.
Beef Up Your Photos and Shoot Better Video
The camera on the Pixel is pretty impressive.
Unfortunately, theres no app to change the hardware on your phone.
you’re free to download theGoogle Cameraapp to getsome of its coolest featureslike HDR or smart burst mode.
With it, you’re free to assign a shortcut to any icon on your home screen.
Long-press the app icon and tap Edit in the pop-up menu.
Tap the Swipe action drop-down.
Tap the Shortcuts tab along the top of the screen.
Scroll down and tap Directions.
Enter a destination address, like your home.
Give it a name like Navigate Home.
Now, swipe up on the Maps icon on your home screen.
This should immediately launch the Navigation feature of Google Maps with your home address already entered.
Meanwhile, Duo is like a cross-platform Facetime, bringing easy video calls to both Android and iPhone users.
Best of all, theres no need to buy a new phone just to try these out.
If you want it without waiting, however, you’re able to get it withMaterial Power Menu.
It will launch a simple screen with several power options available.
If all you want is an easy way to reboot your phone, this is all youll need.
