So, you’ve just unboxed your brand-new Google Pixel 8. This sleek, state-of-the-art device is more than just a phone; it’s a mini-computer that fits right into your pocket! With impressive features, it’s an investment you want to last.
But let’s face it – accidents happen. Drops, spills, or occasional forgetfulness can turn your shiny new gadget into a paperweight. This guide ensures your new Pixel 8 phone stays in good shape. We’ll give you ten easy tips to protect your smartphone from damage and keep it running smoothly. Let’s get started!
- Invest in a Sturdy Phone Case
To help safeguard it, investing in a robust phone case is crucial. But remember, not all phone cases are created equal. Let’s go deeper into what elements contribute to a truly protective phone case.
When discussing sturdy phone cases, the term “military-grade standard” often arises. This refers to the MIL-STD-810G, a U.S. military specification that evaluates a product’s ruggedness, durability, and limits12. A military-grade phone case has been tested to withstand extreme temperatures, rain, humidity, and, most importantly, drops3.
Certain phone cases even exceed this standard, boasting the MIL-STD-810G-516.7 certification, which offers an elevated degree of shock protection. These cases have endured rigorous testing to ensure they can protect your phone, even when dropped from significant heights. There’s a wide array to consider when it comes to materials used in these robust phone cases. Aramid Fiber, a heat-resistant and strong synthetic fiber often utilized in aerospace and military applications, is one of them. Cases made from Aramid Fiber are mostly rugged but lightweight, providing excellent protection without adding bulk.
Polycarbonate is another popular material due to its impact resistance and lightweight properties. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) offers flexibility like silicone but resistance akin to plastic, making it ideal for ‘clear’ phone cases7. Silicone cases, known for their flexibility and grippy feel, reduce the chance of accidental slips.
For those who are into aesthetics, leather or wood cases add a touch of class and uniqueness to your phone. Metal and carbon fiber cases provide strong protection but can hinder signal strength. So, investing in a sturdy, military-grade phone case that suits your needs is a wise move to keep your Google Pixel 8 safe.
- Apply a Screen Protector
Screen protectors are a pivotal accessory to protect your Google Pixel 8’s display from scratches, cracks, and even smudges. They are the first defense against everyday hazards such as keys in your pocket or accidental drops. It’s essential to install them correctly to avoid undesirable bubbles or misalignment, which can affect your screen’s touch responsiveness and visibility.
There are two main types of screen protectors: film and tempered glass. Made of plastic, film protectors are generally thinner and less noticeable once applied. They’re good for preventing scratches but may not provide ample protection against high-impact drops. On the other hand, they have the advantage of being more affordable and easier to replace if damaged.
Tempered glass protectors, however, offer superior protection. They are multi-layered, typically consisting of an absorbent silicon base layer, PET film, clear adhesive glue, and a final tempered glass layer. This structure allows them to absorb five times more impact energy than normal glass and mimics the feel of the original screen. While they are more expensive than film protectors, their durability and effectiveness in protecting your screen make them a worthwhile investment.
Moreover, some screen protectors have additional features like anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coatings. Anti-glare protectors reduce screen reflections, making viewing your screen in bright light easier, while anti-fingerprint coatings help keep your screen clean and smudge-free.
- Use a Dust Plug
Dust plugs are small yet effective devices designed to provide extra protection for your Google Pixel 8. They work by blocking your phone’s ports, particularly the headphone jack and charging port, which are vulnerable to dust, debris, and even liquid damage. By keeping these ports clean, you can maintain their functionality and extend your device’s lifespan.
Dust plugs come in various designs and materials, from simple silicone plugs to elaborate metal ones adorned with charms. Some even come attached to a small cord, so you can pull out the plug without losing it when you need to use the port. While they may seem insignificant, they serve a significant purpose. They prevent dust and debris from accumulating inside your device’s ports.
A dust or debris buildup in these ports can lead to several issues. It can interfere with charging, cause poor connection with headphones, or even result in internal damage if the particles find their way deeper into the device. In some cases, dirt buildup can also lead to overheating problems as it hinders heat dissipation.
Furthermore, dust plugs can help prevent moisture from entering your phone through its ports, protecting against accidental spills or exposure to rain.
- Regularly Clean Your Phone
Maintaining the cleanliness of your Google Pixel 8 is not only essential for aesthetic reasons, but it also plays a significant role in preserving its functionality and extending its lifespan. Over time, dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on your phone, potentially clogging ports and buttons or scratching the screen.
When cleaning your phone, it’s crucial to avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, which can damage the phone’s screen coating or other delicate parts. Instead, opt for microfiber cloths, which are gentle yet effective in removing dust and smudges from your phone’s surface. These clothes are designed to lift and trap dirt particles, reducing the risk of scratches.
For a more thorough cleaning, consider specialized electronics cleaning solutions. These are typically alcohol-based and explicitly designed for use with electronic devices, ensuring they clean effectively without causing damage. Remember to power off your device before cleaning and avoid spraying any solution directly onto it. Instead, lightly dampen your cloth with the solution and gently wipe your phone.
Moreover, cleaning your phone is about more than just maintaining its physical condition. It’s also a vital hygiene practice since phones can harbor bacteria and viruses. Therefore, regular cleaning keeps your phone in top shape and helps protect your health.
- Avoid Water and Liquid Damage
Preserving the integrity of your Google Pixel 8 includes taking measures to avoid water and liquid damage. While it’s true that the Pixel 8 has a certain level of water resistance, this doesn’t equate to being entirely waterproof. Water-resistant devices can withstand light rain or accidental spills, but they’re not designed for immersion in water.
The level of water resistance in electronic devices is typically indicated by an IP rating (Ingress Protection). For instance, an IP rating of IP68, common in many smartphones including the Pixel 8, means the device is dust-tight and can be immersed in water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes. However, these tests are conducted in controlled environments and don’t account for temperature changes, water pressure, chlorine, or salt, affecting the device’s water resistance.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid using your phone in the rain, near pools, or in the bathroom, where it could be exposed to splashes or steam. Even condensation from hot showers can seep into your device and cause damage.
If your Pixel 8 does get wet, don’t panic. Immediately wipe it dry with a soft cloth, paying special attention to the ports and buttons. Avoid using heat to dry it, such as a hairdryer, as this can cause additional damage. Instead, let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Be Cautious with Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can harm your Google Pixel 8’s performance and battery lifespan. High temperatures can cause your phone to overheat, leading to a slowdown in performance, battery drain, or damage to internal components in severe cases. On the other hand, exposing your phone to freezing temperatures can affect battery efficiency and screen responsiveness.
Avoid leaving your Pixel 8 in environments like hot cars or outdoors in freezing weather. Even direct sunlight can heat the device beyond its optimal temperature range. Try to keep your phone at room temperature (about 20 to 22 degrees Celsius) whenever possible. If you notice your device heating up or becoming too cold, give it time to return to normal temperature before using it again.
- Secure Your Data with Regular Backups
Regular data backups are an essential practice for any digital device user. They preserve valuable data, such as photos, contacts, and documents, and can save you from potential headaches in case of device failure, loss, or theft.
Google Drive offers an easy and convenient way to back up your Pixel 8, providing up to 15GB of free storage. However, third-party cloud services like Dropbox or OneDrive are excellent alternatives if you need more space or prefer another service. These platforms typically offer automatic backup features, ensuring your data is regularly updated without requiring manual intervention.
- Install a Security App
As our reliance on smartphones increases, so does the risk of digital threats like malware, phishing, and data breaches. Protecting your device with a security app is just as important as protecting it from physical harm.
Security apps like Avast or Bitdefender provide comprehensive protection against various digital threats. They offer virus scanning, malicious website blocking, and anti-theft measures. Regularly updating these apps ensures you have the latest protection against emerging threats.
- Be Mindful of App Permissions
When installing new apps on your Pixel 8, reviewing and understanding the permissions they request is crucial. Some apps may ask for access to information or features they don’t necessarily need for their functionality, potentially compromising your privacy and data security.
Before granting any permissions, consider if the app needs that access to function. For instance, a weather app may need your location to provide accurate forecasts, but a simple game probably doesn’t. Being mindful of these permissions helps maintain your privacy and prevents unnecessary data collection.
- Enable Find My Device
Losing your phone can be a stressful experience, but Google’s Find My Device feature can be a lifesaver in such situations. This feature lets you track your lost Pixel 8 on a map, ring it even in silent mode, or erase all data remotely if recovery seems unlikely.
To use this feature, you must enable it under security options in your device’s settings. It’s also essential to ensure your Google account is secure, as it’s linked to the Find My Device feature. This way, even if you lose your phone, you won’t lose your peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your Google Pixel 8 doesn’t require much effort but can significantly extend its lifespan and performance. By taking these proactive steps, you’ll ensure your phone stays in great shape longer. Remember, a little care goes a long way!
