How to Change Languages on Google Pixel & Pixel XL

Changing the system language on a Google Pixel or Pixel XL is a quick process that affects the language of menus, settings, and most preinstalled apps. It’s useful if you’ve bought the phone in another country, prefer a different language, or want to match the phone to your primary language. You only need the phone itself, and the change takes effect immediately.

What You’ll Need

Your Google Pixel or Pixel XL device
Your device passcode, PIN, or pattern (required to confirm the change)

Step-by-Step

Unlock your phone and go to the home screen.
Open the Settings app – the gear icon is usually in your app drawer or on the home screen.
Scroll down and tap “System” – it’s near the bottom of the Settings list.
Tap “Languages & input” – this opens language and keyboard options.
Tap “Languages” – you’ll see a list of current languages, with your primary language at the top.
Tap “Add a language” – a list of available languages appears, sorted alphabetically by their English names.
Select your desired language from the list. You can scroll or use the search icon at the top to find it faster.
Choose the regional variant if prompted – for example, English (United States) vs. English (United Kingdom). Tap the one you want.
Drag the new language to the top of the list – press and hold the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) next to the language, then drag it to the first position. This makes it your primary language.
Tap the back arrow – the phone will apply the change and restart the interface. The system language updates instantly, and most preinstalled apps will follow.

Common Mistakes

Not moving the language to the top – adding a language without dragging it to the top only adds it as a secondary option; the system stays in the original language.
Choosing the wrong regional variant – picking “English (Australia)” when you wanted “English (United States)” changes spellings and some terms, which can be confusing.
Confusing “Languages & input” with “Language & region” – on some Android versions, “Language & region” is a separate menu that only changes date/number formats, not the system language. Always use “Languages” under “System.”
Forgetting that some apps have their own language settings – apps like Google Maps or Gmail may have an in-app language option that overrides the system language.

Tips

Use the search function – in the “Add a language” screen, tap the magnifying glass icon to type the language name in English; it’s faster than scrolling.
Keep your original language as a secondary – if you travel or need to switch back, leave your original language in the list. You can quickly swap by dragging it to the top.
Check app-specific language settings – if an app stays in the old language, open that app’s settings and look for a “Language” option.
Test with a simple app – after changing, open Settings or Messages to confirm the change looks right before customizing further.

Troubleshooting

The language didn’t change – Go back to Settings > System > Languages & input > Languages and make sure your desired language is at the top of the list. If it’s not, drag it up. If it’s already at the top, try removing all other languages and then re-adding yours.
Some text is still in the old language – This is normal for apps that have their own language settings. Check the app’s in-app language option. For system apps like Settings, a reboot may help.
You can’t find the language you want – The list is long, but you can search. If it’s not there, your Android version may not support it; check for a system update under Settings > System > System update.
The phone is stuck in a language you don’t understand – If you accidentally changed to an unfamiliar language, navigate by memory: go to Settings (gear icon), then the icon that looks like an “A” with a pencil (usually “System”), then “Languages & input,” then “Languages.” Look for “Add a language” (usually a plus icon) and add English or your preferred language, then drag it to the top.
After a factory reset, the language reverted – Factory reset always restores the default language. You’ll need to change it again using the same steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing the language affect my apps or data?

No, changing the system language does not delete or alter any of your apps, photos, contacts, or other data. It only changes the display language.

Can I have two languages active at the same time?

Yes, you can add multiple languages to the list. The first one is the primary, but the system may automatically switch to a secondary language for certain apps or when you type, depending on your settings.

How do I switch back to English?

Follow the same steps and add English (or your preferred variant), then drag it to the top of the list. The change is immediate.

Will changing the language affect my keyboard?

Not automatically. Your keyboard layout and autocorrect language are separate settings. You can change them under Settings > System > Languages & input > On-screen keyboard.

Does the language change apply to all Google apps?

Most Google apps (like Gmail, Chrome, and Maps) will follow the system language, but some have their own language settings that may override it. Check each app’s settings if needed.

What if I don’t see “System” in Settings?

On some older Android versions, the menu is called “System & updates” or “General management.” Look for “Language and input” or “Languages” directly in the main Settings list.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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