How to Remap Compression on Pixel 2 to Do Whatever You Want
One of the most interesting features of the Pixel 2 is Active Edge , which lets you launch Google Assistant by simply squeezing your smartphone. Unfortunately, Google made the annoying decision to block this feature for its AI assistant, but one developer has already figured out a way to bypass the company’s restrictions.
You can remap the Pixel 2’s Active Edge to do just about anything with an app called Button Mapper, which was highlighted on Friday by XDA-Developers . Here’s what you need to know.
How to remap the active edge on Pixel 2
Actually Button Mapper doesn’t quite reassign the Active Edge feature. Instead, it uses a clever workaround, intercepting the command to launch Google Assistant and redirecting it to another function. Of course, Google may decide to fix this loophole, and it could possibly cause some lag on your device. You’ll also give a third-party app access to some personal information on your phone, but if that doesn’t bother you, it’s time to get busy.
The first thing you need to do is download Button Mapper, which you can get from the Google Play store or directly from the XDA if you like. Even if you already have the app installed (it’s useful for remapping other hardware buttons), you’ll still want to make sure you’re using the latest 0.53 update.
Besides the Pixel 2, you also need a Windows, macOS, or Linux computer to install additional code. So make sure you have it close at hand.
At this point, things start to get complicated. The XDA has outlined many of the necessary steps, so you better follow along with them.
Once you’ve got everything set up, you can reconfigure Active Edge to launch a specific app, turn on Do Not Disturb mode, or turn on the flashlight. You can also use it to navigate Android, so when you squeeze your phone, it comes back, shows the latest apps, closes the app you are currently viewing, or turns off the screen. The possibilities are endless.