Tablets have been around for quite a while now, and these days, it’s no longer just the tired old simple slate design that dominates the Android tablet market. From smartphones that unfold into tablets to various forms of 2-in-1 laptops that turn into a tablet, there’s a wide variety of hybrids that try to merge tablets with other devices to help them become the ultimate productivity machine and media consumption machine. The result is often mixed as these hybrids tend to shine in one of the devices it’s trying to be but fail to pull off the other. Enter the Google Pixel Tablet – Google’s latest foray into the tablet scene. It’s a hybrid tablet, but not in the way that you’d expect. Instead of a productivity device like a laptop or a smartphone, the tech giant’s new tablet’s alternative function is as a smart home display. So, how do you set up a Google Pixel Tablet? It’s easy because Google makes it so. Here’s how to do it.
What’s in the Box?
Before we dive into the setup process, take a few minutes to explore what’s in the box. Unboxing is half the fun, isn’t it? And by the way if you’d like to read the full hands-on review of Pixel Tablet it’s right here.
You should typically find:
- The Google Pixel Tablet
- the Speaker Dock
- 1 power adapter
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- Quick start guide
Alright, gear check complete. Let’s roll up our digital sleeves and get started.
Powering On
The Google Pixel Tablet runs on Android 13, so its setup is no different than your typical Pixel smartphone. So, to start it up, simply press and hold the power button on the top right side of the screen.
You’ll be greeted with the “Welcome to Your Pixel Tablet” screen, where you can pick your language of choice.
Connect to Wi-Fi
As a content consumption tablet and smart home display hybrid device, the Pixel Tablet needs to connect to your Wi-Fi to be of any use. So, it’s just fitting that the next screen you’ll be greeted with is the Wi-Fi selection screen. Choose your preferred Wi-Fi network, preferably the same network you’re using for your other smart home devices.
Sign in to Your Google Account
Enter your email or phone number and hit ‘Next’ to input the password. This should let you pick up where you left off in your Google apps, such as YouTube, Gmail, and even Google Docs. And because it’s running on the full Android 13 operating system, you can even copy the apps and data from your smartphone.
Signing into your account also does wonders for when it’s docked. For instance, it can access and work with the existing reminders, alarms, photos, and other media already on your phone.
Not a Google person yet? Tap on ‘Create account’ and follow the steps.
Set up a PIN and Fingerprint Recognition
On the next screen, you’ll be asked to set a PIN, pattern, or password. Choose a method and follow the prompts to set it up. Some might argue that patterns could be fun, but it’s your call!
You can also set up your fingerprint as the unlock method on the Pixel tablet on the next screen. The scanner is located on the power button on the top right of the screen and is quite accurate. You can also use the same fingerprint for Android Pay if you want to make payments quickly and securely.
Google Services
You don’t have to agree to all Google services. Read through them and choose according to your privacy and personal preferences. Remember, every decision counts!
Setup Google Assistant
One of the most crucial steps in the setup process has got to be one of the most important. It lets you make the most out of the tablet’s smart home hub functionalities, such as smart device integration, hands-free media controls, and quick inquiries.
Setting this up is easy as it’s a simple toggle interface where you can opt in or out of certain Google Assistant features. Want Google Assistant to respond only to your own voice? You can do that by toggling Voice Match on.
Setting up and Using the Speaker Dock
The speaker dock is also pretty easy to set up. Just plug the cable into the wall outlet and align the magnets at the back of the tablet. This should start charging your device and begin the Hub Mode setup process.
From this screen, you can do the following:
- Choose a personalized screen-saver
- Add the dock to your home for smart home controls
- Link media services such as Spotify, Netflix, and others easily
- Let other people in your home control your smart devices when it’s on Hub Mode
Once that’s all setup, every time you dock and lock your Pixel Tablet on the speaker dock, it will instantly transition into Hub Mode. Your chosen screen saver is displayed, and it changes its interface to that similar to Google’s Nest Hub devices.
Voila! You’re Set!
The Google Pixel Tablet is essentially a Nest Hub with a detachable screen. This lets you use it as a portable content consumption machine when it’s undocked or as a useful hub for your smart devices when it’s docked.
Shop the Google Pixel Tablet on Amazon
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