Creating a Google account is quick and simple, and you can even do it right on your phone. Here are step-by-step instructions on how you can sign up for a new Google account on an Android mobile device.
How to Set Up a New Google Account
Setting up a Google account has its advantages. When you create one, it will automatically sync data including your browser settings, autofill settings, and much more. You can access the Google Play Store as well. Let’s take a look at some of the basic requirements.
Requirements to Create a Google Account
To open a Google account, you need to be 13 years old or above, and you’ll need to enter specific information to verify your identity. This is necessary to ensure your account’s security.
Google has several services that require users to be at least 18 years of age, including YouTube and Google Pay. You can use the Google Family Link app to create a new Google account for your kids who are under the age of 13. To set up two-factor authentication for your account, you’d also need to provide your phone number for verification via text or voice calls.
Getting Started
Setting up a Google account is simple. Here’s how to do so:
On your device, go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Manage Accounts. Scroll down and tap on Add account. Select Google from the list. If you have a pattern/biometric recognition enabled, you need to unlock your phone first. On the sign-in screen, tap Create account, then select For Myself from the dropdown. You’ll need to enter your personal information such as name, date of birth, and gender. Tap Next. 3 Images Close You’ll be prompted to choose a Gmail address based on your name. You can choose one of the suggestions or create a unique address. Select Next. To protect your account, you should set up a strong password and add your phone number to your Google account. This will be useful for setting up two-factor authentication for your Google account. Select Yes, I’m in. You can also choose if you want to add your number for security purposes only, or to use it across Google services. To do this, tap More options and select the required option. On the next page, read the terms and conditions of service and hit I agree to complete the set-up process. 4 Images Close
What Should You Do After Creating a Google Account?
You’ve got a Google account, but now what? There are several things that you need to do in order to ensure that your account is secure, functional, and private. Here are a few things to take care of.
Turn On 2-Step Verification
To keep your information safe, you can turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Google account.
When you log into your Gmail account from a new device, Google will send you a login security alert if it detects possible malicious activity on your account. This is designed to keep you safe from unauthorized access malware attacks, and other suspicious activity.
With 2FA, you’ll need to enter an extra code whenever you sign in to your account from a new computer or device, or after a period of inactivity. To do this, follow the steps listed below:
On your device, go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Manage Accounts. Select your newly created account from the list and tap Google account. In the Home tab, you’ll be prompted to turn on 2-Step Verification. Tap Count Me in. Next, open your Google account in your mobile browser. Click on Get Started. To make sure you receive your two-step verification codes, you will need to add a phone number to your Google account. Tap Continue and add a phone number. Select if you wish to receive 2FA codes via text or calls. Alternatively, you may tap on Use Another Backup option to receive a set of one-off codes to access your Google account. Enter the One-Time Password you’re sent and tap Next to activate and turn on 2FA.
You’ll also be able to access your account with Google prompts on linked devices. You can even use other available options such as an authenticator service and a security key.
Alternatively, you may tap on Use Another Backup option to receive a set of one-off codes to access your Google account.
Review Security Settings and App Permissions
After creating a Google Account, you should periodically check the Security tab for suspicious activity and monitor app access. Here are a few quick tips.
You can get an overview of your device’s security settings by going to the security recommendations section and tapping on Protect your account. Add a recovery email here. To review your security activity, go to Security > Recent security activity > Review security activity. To manage your linked devices, go to Security > Your devices > Manage devices. You might also want to manage apps you’ve linked to your Google account. To do this, go to Google account homepage > Security > Third-party apps with account access. This will open up a list of apps that have access to your account. If you click on one of these apps and scroll down, you’ll see any permissions that are currently available for that app. You can revoke those permissions by clicking on the app and selecting Revoke Access.
Sync Your Data to Your Google Account
One of the most important things you’ll want to do is to sync your data to your Google account. This way, if you lose your device or important data, you’ll always be able to retrieve it from another device.
To do this, navigate to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Manage Accounts. Tap your desired Google account, and select the data you wish to sync, such as contacts, calendar, and emails.
In case you haven’t already, you’ll want to set up a recovery email and/or phone number. This is used in case you forget your password and can’t access your account, or if you lock yourself out of it. You can enter this information on Google’s account dashboard under Personal info > Contact info.
Access Your Google Account Anywhere
Having a Google account makes it simple to switch devices, Just sign in with your existing account and there you go—your app settings, preferences, and other data will be right there on your phone. Of course, most people will have their hands full setting up a new Android device. We hope the tips here will make your experience with Android easier and more enjoyable.
