screenrant.com Google Pixel Stand App: How To Download & Use It

A Pixel phone can be used as a hub to control various smart home devices or view information while charging on Google's latest Pixel Stand.

Since the Pixel 3's release, Google's flagship phones have been able to wirelessly charge via Qi technology. The Pixel Stand, Google's official wireless charger, is now updated with new bells and whistles that make it an even more powerful device. For example, it now includes a maximum charging power of 23W for the Pixel 6 Pro, making it a must for those who've purchased Google's most advanced phone to date.

There are certainly benefits to having a device that can regain battery without having to be tethered to a wall. The Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) not only offers the convenience of wireless charging for compatible Pixel phones, Pixel buds, and other Qi-certified devices, it also has the ability to turn a Pixel phone into a do-it-all smart hub that lets users do things like monitor their Nest cams, adjust the temperature, or dim the lights in their home. It also lets users ask Google Assistant for information that's pertinent to a person's day-to-day life.

Related: Here's Why You Should Buy A Wireless Phone Charger

To take full advantage of the newest Pixel Stand's smart home features, users need to own a Google Pixel 3 or newer Pixel phone running the latest version of Android. They will also need to go through an onboarding process with the Pixel Stand app, beginning by setting up Google Assistant to work while the device is wirelessly charging. There's actually no need to manually download the Pixel Stand app—just make sure the charging stand is plugged in with its official power adapter and that the Pixel is mounted in the center (preferably in portrait mode, if the phone needs to be charged), with the phone's screen facing outward. Doing this should automatically start the set-up process for the charging stand and begin restoring the phone's battery life. When a 'Do more while charging' message pops up on the screen, tap 'Next.' If the message fails to display, take the phone off the Pixel Stand and place it back on the stand again. Alternatively, launch the phone's Settings app, go to 'Connected devices,' tap 'Settings' next to 'Pixel Stand' and then follow the onscreen instructions.

Using Google Assistant With The New Pixel Stand

Once the setup for Google Assistant is done, users can opt to turn on personal results so the feature can help remember important calendar events, reminders, emails, and the like. To set it up, open the Settings app on the Pixel phone, scroll down and tap on 'Google.' From here, scroll down and tap on 'Settings for Google apps' and then on 'Search, Assistant & Voice.' On the next page, tap on 'Personal results and then on "Google Assistant," scroll down and tap on 'Personal results' and then enable by toggling 'Personal Results' to the on position. Alternatively, Pixel phone users can simply type "personal results" into the Settings search bar to get to the same location quicker.

To complete the Pixel Stand app onboarding process, modify the Google Assistant settings for the stand by launching the phone's Settings app and tapping 'Connected devices.' If 'Pixel Stand' is not listed under 'Previously connected devices', hit 'See all' followed by 'Settings' next to 'Pixel Stand' and then tap on 'Photo frame.' There are a few Assistant options to switch on or off. For example, 'Pixel Stand personal results' lets users get personal results on the phone while it's on the Pixel stand, even when it's locked. 'Ambient display' shows personal results on the phone screen when charging. 'Photo frame on ambient display' displays photos from Google Photos while the phone is on the Pixel Stand and this can be set up by tapping 'Select Google Photos albums' to choose which photos to show. To activate the photo frame, swipe right from the phone's lock screen.

Once the Pixel stand app onboarding is complete, users can choose from three available charging modes that offer various charging speeds and levels of fan noise. They can also change notification interruptions and the brightness level of the phone screen while it's docked on the Pixel Stand, as well as set up a sunrise or bedtime alarm, and modify home and media controls. These features can be found by opening the phone's Settings app, selecting 'Pixel Stand' under 'Connected devices,' and accessing the Pixel Stand's own settings page.

Next: The 5 Best Camera Apps For Google Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

Sources: Google 1, 2

Jam Kotenko is a long-time freelance writer based in Seattle with a focus on cool tech, social media, entertainment, and lifestyle. Her bylines have appeared in publications such as Digital Trends, The Daily Dot, and Bustle and was often tapped to test and review new mobile apps, compile best-of lists, and share details on her OKCupid success story. Additionally, she has also written personal essays about her experiences relating to marriage, motherhood, and everything in between. She recently contributed articles relating to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic for Nautilus Magazine.She is a full-time stay-at-home mom to two rambunctious boys and a nap-loving dog. Along with her husband, she is currently on a health and fitness kick and is hoping to run her first marathon in late 2022.