Android
How to Change the Google Pixel 2 Squeeze Features
In this quick guide we’ll show you how to change the Google Pixel 2 squeeze sensitivity, features, or what it opens. Did you know you can squeeze the bottom half of the phone to launch apps like the Google Assistant? It’s called the Active Edge, and here’s how to get the most from this nifty feature.
Google’s Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have a lot of cool features, but one most people don’t use is the Active Edge. The frame is squeezable and touch-sensitive.
Read: 20 Best Google Pixel 2 XL Cases
Whether you’re accidentally launching the Google Assistant by squeezing the sides of your phone, or you just want to change how it works, here’s how. The instructions below will show you where to go in settings, what to do, and what it will change. We also explain the different customization options available with the Pixel 2 Active Edge.
How to Change the Pixel 2 Squeeze (Active Edge)
- Go to the Pixel 2 Settings menu (pull down notification bar and tap gear-shaped setting icon)
- Scroll to the bottom and tap on System
- Find and select Languages, Input & Gestures
- Tap on Gestures
- Choose the Active Edge option
- In here you can change the Pixel 2 squeeze sensitivity, turn off the Google Assistant quick-launch, use Active Edge when the screen is off, or use the Active Edge squeeze to silence an incoming call.
Follow our quick and simple instructions, or look at the screenshot above for an idea of what you’re looking for. Another option is to open settings and tap the search magnifying glass icon, type Active Edge, and open the settings menu that way.
Once you’re in here you’ll want to customize the Pixel 2 squeeze feature to your liking. The first change we recommend is sensitivity. If you find it too hard, lower the sensitivity so it’s easier to activate the Google Assistant. If you find it going off on its own, by mistake, increase the sensitivity by sliding the bar to the right. This way it requires a “firm squeeze” to activate the Edge feature.
Customize the Pixel 2 Squeeze (Launch Different Apps)
If you love the Pixel 2 or 2 XL but want to launch something else with the Squeeze, we can help you with that too. The most obvious choice is a squeeze to open the camera, but that’s just one of many options available for Pixel 2 owners.
You can quickly remap the squeeze to do just about anything you can imagine. It’s not the easiest process in the world and does require ADB access. If you don’t know what ADB is, skip this. Here’s how:
- Download Button Mapper from the Google Play Store
- Follow the instructions to set up and use the application
- In Button Mapper navigate to Buttons, then select Active Edge
- then select Customize and launch ADB
- Open Command Prompt/Terminal and type “adb shell sh /data/data/flar2.homebutton/keyevent.sh“
- Reboot the app, and now select any app to use when you squeeze the Pixel 2
It’s worth stating that customizing the Active Edge squeeze feature on the Pixel 2 isn’t for the faint of heart. If you’re new to Android or have never used ADB we recommend skipping this process. It’s easy to make mistakes and mess something up. If that’s the case, just stick to our instructions near the top of the page to change what Google allows you to.
If you still want to customize your device further, give the Button Mapper app a try.
That’s it. Sadly Google doesn’t give us too many options for the squeezable sides. HTC, however, who pioneered the feature, gives owners plenty of customization. Hopefully, Google adds more features to upcoming updates. For now, you’re limited to the options detailed above.
Before you go, check out these 10 best Pixel 2 screen protectors. Or, if you’re having trouble with your phone look over this guide of 15 common Pixel 2 problems and how to fix them.
