One of the great features of the Google Pixel phone is the fingerprint scanner on the back of the device. Unlocking your phone feels easier and more natural (I think, anyway) compared to fingerprint scanners on the front when doing things like removing it from your pocket or bag. But when using your Pixel phone in the car, the location of that fingerprint scanner can make unlocking your phone more awkward—especially if it’s in a cradle or on a magnetic mount.
Now, you could adjust your display sleep settings, so your screen doesn’t go to sleep right away. But the best you can change it to on Pixel is 30 minutes without downloading third-party apps. However, there is a way to make it so your screen won’t lock while you’re charging your phone. So if your phone is in a cradle or on a mount, you can just tap the screen to wake it instead of awkwardly reaching around to the back of the phone each time to unlock it. It means doing something on your phone you probably aren’t familiar with, but don’t worry… that’s what we’re here for—to make it easy.
Here’s what to do to keep your display awake for both Android Nougat (7.0 and above) and the new Android Oreo (8.0) :
Android Nougat (7.0)
Swipe down from the top of the screen to reveal the Notifications shade—then Tap Settings. You can also reveal the Notifications shade by swiping down from the top on the fingerprint scanner. Or, if you’d prefer, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to reveal the App Drawer, then tap 
Scroll down to the bottom of the page—then tap About phone.
Scroll again to the very bottom of the page, then tap Build number repeatedly until you see an alert that states: You’re now a developer (it usually takes around seven taps).
In the main Settings area, you should now see Developer options, just above the About phone section. Tap Developer options, then turn on Stay awake.
Android Oreo (8.0)
If you have the newest flavor of Android, the steps are nearly identical to what you’d do on Android Nougat—just with a slightly different look.
Open Settings and scroll down to the bottom of the page.
Tap Support, then tap About phone.
Scroll again to the very bottom of the page, then tap Build number seven times.
Developer options is in a slightly different location in Android Oreo. To get to it, go back to the main Settings page and tap System near the bottom of the page. Tap on Developer options, then turn on Stay Awake.
Now, while your phone is charging, the screen will still dim, but it won’t go to sleep. Simply tapping anywhere on the screen will light it back up—giving you an easier and quicker way to access your Pixel while driving.
To discover more about how to use your new Google Pixel phone and Android, check out our other tips.
