Google's Repair Mode: Enabling Easy Data Backups for Pixel Phone Service

Google is working on a "repair mode" for Pixel smartphones that would allow users to hand their device over for repairs without needing to backup or reset it first. Earlier this year, Samsung introduced a similar "maintenance mode" for Galaxy devices that creates a separate user profile to lock down personal data when activated.

According to a recent report, Google is developing its own repair mode for Pixel phones and plans to add the feature natively to Android so other manufacturers can utilise it as well. The discovery was made by Mishaal Rahman, a prominent observer of Android developments, who says Google's implementation will differ from Samsung's approach.

While Samsung's maintenance mode generates a new profile, Google's repair mode will essentially simulate a factory reset using a technique introduced in Android 10 called Dynamic System Updates. This allows the device to boot without modifying the existing user data and settings.

Once Google's repair mode launches, phone makers will have the option to either use their own version like Samsung, or adopt Google's native solution. The feature is expected to roll out to Pixel devices in the first feature drop update in December.

By natively supporting repair modes, Google aims to make the repair process smoother by removing the backup and reset hurdles many users face today. The feature would allow owners to securely hand their device over for servicing without risking personal data access.