If you hold the power button on a Google Pixel 6 expecting a shutdown menu, you’ll probably get Google Assistant (or Gemini) instead. Google changed the default so the power button launches the assistant, which confuses a lot of new Pixel owners. This guide shows the button combination that actually turns the phone off, the Quick Settings shortcut, how to force restart a frozen Pixel, and how to change the power button back.
Quick Answer
Press and hold the Power button and Volume Up button together for a second or two, then tap Power off. You can also swipe down twice from the top of the screen and tap the power icon in Quick Settings.
Method 1: Power + Volume Up
- Press and hold the Power button (upper button on the right side) and the Volume Up button at the same time.
- Release when the power menu appears.
- Tap Power off. To restart instead, tap Restart.
Method 2: Quick Settings
- Swipe down from the top of the screen twice to fully expand Quick Settings.
- Tap the power icon near the bottom right (next to the settings gear).
- Tap Power off.
Method 3: Ask the Assistant
Say “Hey Google, turn off my phone” or “restart my phone.” The assistant opens the power menu for you to confirm.
Force Restart a Frozen Pixel 6
If the screen is unresponsive, press and hold the Power button for about 30 seconds until the phone restarts. If that doesn’t work, hold Power + Volume Down for the same time. This doesn’t erase data.
Change What Holding the Power Button Does
- Open Settings > System > Gestures.
- Tap Press & hold power button.
- Choose Power menu instead of the digital assistant.
After this, holding the power button alone opens the power menu, like on older Android phones. Menu names can vary slightly by Android version.
Turn the Pixel 6 Back On
Press and hold the Power button for a few seconds until the Google logo appears. If it doesn’t start, charge it for at least 30 minutes and try again.
Troubleshooting
- Power menu doesn’t appear: press both buttons at exactly the same time and hold a bit longer.
- Phone restarts instead of powering off: a system update may be finishing; let it complete.
- Buttons don’t respond: use Quick Settings, or check for a case that presses the buttons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this work on other Pixel phones?
Yes. Pixel 6 and newer models use the same Power + Volume Up combination and Quick Settings power icon.
Is restarting better than turning off?
For fixing glitches, a restart is quicker and just as effective. Turn off the phone for storage, travel, or hardware issues.
Summary
- Hold Power + Volume Up, then tap Power off.
- Or use the power icon in Quick Settings.
- Hold Power for 30 seconds to force restart.
- Change the power button behavior in Settings > System > Gestures.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.