Press the Power and Volume up buttons together, then tap Lockdown. It temporarily hides lock-screen notifications and disables fingerprint or face unlocking and Extend Unlock. The session ends the next time you unlock your Pixel, so you must turn it on again for another session.
How to turn on Lockdown on a Pixel
- Press the Power and Volume up buttons at the same time.
- Tap Lockdown in the menu that appears.
Google notes that steps can vary by device. If the option or button behavior differs, consult Google’s Pixel Lockdown instructions for your device and software version.
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What Lockdown changes
While Lockdown is active, the documented changes are to unlocking and what appears on the lock screen:
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- Fingerprint and face unlocking are disabled. You must use your regular screen-lock credential the next time you unlock.
- Extend Unlock is disabled. The feature that can keep a device unlocked in certain situations will not do so during the session.
- Lock-screen notifications are turned off.
Google lists PIN, pattern, and password as screen-lock options. Make sure you know your credential before using Lockdown; see Google’s screen-lock guide.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro XL; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
How Lockdown differs from regular use
| Behavior | Regular use | Lockdown active |
|---|---|---|
| Biometric unlocking | Fingerprint or face unlocking may be available, depending on the device and setup. | Fingerprint and face unlocking are disabled until the next unlock. |
| Extend Unlock | May be available if configured. | Disabled for the session. |
| Lock-screen notifications | May appear according to notification settings. | Turned off. |
| Next unlock | Use an available unlock method. | Use the regular screen-lock credential. |
This comparison describes the specific behavior Google documents; it is not a measured ranking of overall security.
When Lockdown ends
Lockdown lasts only until you unlock the device. After that, the temporary restrictions end. To use Lockdown again, repeat the button combination and tap Lockdown.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Pixel compatibility and security scope
Google’s Lockdown instructions do not provide a complete compatibility list across Pixel models and software versions. Google separately says Face Unlock is available on Pixel 7 and later, including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet; that availability note is not a full Lockdown compatibility matrix. Check Google’s Face Unlock guidance for the feature’s device context.
Lockdown changes the listed unlock methods and lock-screen notifications; Google’s guidance does not promise that it blocks every attack. Treat it as a temporary way to require your screen-lock credential, not as a replacement for a strong screen lock or keeping your device updated.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 10 is the everyday phone unlike anything else; it has Google Tensor G5, Pixel’s most powerful chip, an incredible camera, and advanced AI - Gemini built in[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- The upgraded triple rear camera system has a new 5x telephoto lens - up to 20x Super Res Zoom for stunning detail from far away; Night Sight takes crisp, clear photos in low-light settings; and Camera Coach helps you snap your best pics[3]
- Pixel 10 is designed - scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and has an IP68 rating for water and dust protection[21]; plus, the Actua display - 3,000-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[4]
Rank #3
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
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