A new feature that Google has unveiled for Pixel devices is intended to protect your data while it’s being repaired. According to the company, by turning on this feature, you might be able to make it easier for technicians to perform diagnostics and stop them from erasing and restoring your data while the system is being repaired. Additionally, Google notes that it can shield your data from possibly prying eyes.
Users of Pixel smartphones running the latest version of Android 14 and having at least 2GB of free storage can enable the mode. To enable the feature, navigate to Settings > System > Repair mode and follow the on-screen instructions (to deactivate the feature, repeat the process). As Google notes, it’s always a good idea to back up your data before starting any repairs, even though repair mode is meant to protect it.
In the meantime, the Phone app on your Pixel device allows you to access a new diagnostic tool that Google has released. It claims that by doing this, you should be able to identify any problems with your device more clearly before having it repaired and to make sure it is operating correctly after you get your phone back. In the Phone app’s keypad, type ##7287## to launch the diagnostics.
In addition to helping professional repair shops get the parts they need to fix Pixel devices, Google wants to make it simpler for consumers to fix their own phone problems. Using iFixit’s assistance, the company began providing authentic Pixel parts and repair manuals last year (and now through Shyft Global Services). Through the Google Help site, you should be able to view repair manuals and find information about how to order the parts you’re looking for. For some devices, repair manuals are directly available from Google in both English and French. In the upcoming months, more device manuals in more languages will be made available.
