To reboot a Google phone, you need to know which model you have because the button combination changed with the Pixel 6. For a routine restart on a Pixel 5a or earlier, press and hold the Power button for about 30 seconds; for a Pixel 6 or later (including the Fold), press and hold Power + Volume Up for a few seconds, then tap Restart on the screen.
How to reboot a Google phone: the model-specific guide
Google splits its Pixel lineup into two restart methods based on the model year. Knowing which method applies to your phone is the key to a successful reboot. A reboot is often the first troubleshooting step because it clears temporary software glitches without affecting your personal data, making it useful when the phone feels slow, apps crash, or the system behaves oddly.
Preparing for Reboot
Back up important data before rebooting. Ensure phone has at least 30% battery before rebooting. Note which app or software update may have caused the issue before rebooting.
Restart Pixel 5a and earlier
For Pixel 5a and earlier models, the documented restart method is straightforward.
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Continue holding for about 30 seconds.
- Release the button when the phone restarts.
This method works for both a routine restart and when the screen is responsive enough to show the power menu.
Restart Pixel 6 and later, including Fold
Starting with the Pixel 6, Google changed the restart combination to include the volume button.
- Press and hold Power + Volume up.
- Hold both buttons for a few seconds until the power menu appears.
- Tap Restart on the screen.
This model-specific split is the most important detail for anyone restarting and rebooting phones, as using the wrong combination on a newer Pixel will not bring up the restart option.
Force restart when the phone is unresponsive
If the screen is frozen or unresponsive, a standard restart may not work. Google documents a force restart (reboot) fallback that works on any Pixel model.
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Continue holding for up to 60 seconds.
- Release the button when the phone begins rebooting and the G logo appears.
This method bypasses the screen entirely, making it the correct choice when the display does not respond to touch or the phone is completely locked up.
What a restart won't do
A restart does not erase any data, settings, or apps. It is not the same as a factory reset, which wipes the phone clean and restores it to out-of-box state. If you are trying to clear a persistent software problem, a restart is a safe first step, but it will not fix issues caused by corrupted system files or account-level problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will rebooting my Google phone delete any data?
No. Rebooting only restarts the device. All your data, contacts, photos, and settings remain exactly as they were.
How often should I reboot my Google phone?
There is no official recommendation, but rebooting once a week can help clear temporary files and keep performance smooth. Many users reboot only when they notice slowdowns or glitches.
What is the difference between a soft reset and a force restart?
Google does not use the term "soft reset." The documented method for an unresponsive phone is called a force restart (reboot), which involves holding the Power button for up to 60 seconds. A routine restart uses the model-specific button combination and requires you to tap Restart on the screen.
Can I restart my Pixel using the Settings app?
No. The only supported methods are the button combinations described above.
What should I do if my phone still won't restart after holding the Power button for 60 seconds?
If the phone does not respond after a full 60-second hold, try connecting it to a charger for at least 15 minutes to rule out a completely drained battery, then attempt the force restart again. If it still does not respond, the device may require hardware service.
How do I force reboot a frozen phone?
Forced reboot on frozen phone: press and hold Power and Volume Down simultaneously for about 10 seconds.
