How to enable ultra-wideband (UWB) on Pixel phones

UWB offers a powerful short-range wireless communication protocol that unlocks a new level of precision for tasks like location tracking, keyless car entry, and data transfer.

While you’re not going to find UWB on every Android phone, you’ll find it on the Google Pixel 8 Pro and a few other flagships. Here’s the list of Pixel devices as of April 2024:

• Google Pixel 6 Pro
• Google Pixel 7 Pro
• Google Pixel 8 Pro
• Google Pixel Fold
• Google Pixel Tablet

To harness the power of UWB on your Pixel phone, enable the feature within your settings using this step-by-step guide:

1. Access Settings: Begin by launching the Settings on your Pixel phone. This icon is typically located on your home screen or within the app drawer.
2. Navigate to Connected Devices: Within the Settings menu, locate and select the “Connected devices” option. This section manages all your phone’s wireless connections.
3. Activate Connection Preferences: Once you’ve entered the “Connected devices” menu, tap on “Connection preferences.” This sub-menu houses various options for customizing your phone’s connectivity behavior.
4. Turn on Ultra-Wideband: Scroll down the “Connection preferences” list until you locate the “Ultra-Wideband (UWB)” toggle. Simply tap the toggle to switch it to the “on” position.

By following these steps, you’ve successfully enabled UWB functionality on your Pixel phone. Your device is now primed to leverage the advantages of UWB technology, from pinpointing the location of misplaced items to unlocking your compatible car with a tap.

UWB technology is still in its nascent stages, but it holds immense promise for the future. As the technology matures and adoption widens, we can expect even more innovative applications to emerge. The ability to seamlessly integrate UWB with existing ecosystems like smart homes and digital wallets paves the way for a more interconnected and convenient user experience.