Android gets desktop mode based on Samsung’s Dex

Google plans to introduce a desktop mode with Android 16. The one relies on the expertise of Samsung and its Dex technology. In the future, the cooperation is intended to enable Android users more productive work with external displays.

Desktop mode becomes a reality

Google’s Android team has been working on a desktop mode for the upcoming 16th version of Android for a long time. This function should enable users to connect your smartphone to external screens and to enjoy a full-fledged desktop experience. As part of the Google I/O developer conference, it has now been confirmed that these improvements are made in close cooperation with Samsung.

Google builds on the foundation of Samsung Dex to expand Android’s desktop skills. How 9to5google reports, Google emphasizes in one Blog post About adaptive Android apps that “the ability of an app to adapt to different screen sizes seamlessly is becoming increasingly important”-especially in view of the growing variety of shape factors and functions such as the new desktop mode.

With Android 16, Google introduces significant improvements in desktop winding, which should enable a real desktop-like experience on large screens and when connecting to external displays. Samsung Dex, which is already transforming Galaxy smartphones and tablets into a desktop-like environment, when they are connected to a monitor or television, serves as a model. The new function will enable users to open and move apps in separate windows.

Samsung’s technology has continuously developed since its introduction in 2017 with the Galaxy S8. Dex originally needed a special docking station, but the system now works with a simple USB-C-on HDMI adapter or even wirelessly with compatible smart TVs.

New Dex user interface

Initial information about Samsung’s coming One UI 8, which will be based on Android 16, indicate that Dex also receives a new design – and rather grows with the native Android function and does not – as suspected in autumn 2024. The taskbar is centered as arranged in Windows and shows favorite apps – even if they are not open.

In addition, the app overview was optimized, which now appears in a more compact window and offers more work surface efficiency. For Google, the integration of a full desktop mode in Android is an important step to help with Apple’s continuity functions and Microsoft’s efforts to make seamless device transitions. While Samsung users have been benefiting from such a “extension” to the desktop for years, all Android devices could soon use an apparently more than comparable mode.