Tag: Samsung DeX

  • Samsung DeX Preview: Enhanced Android Desktop Mode Ahead of One UI 8

    Samsung DeX Preview: Enhanced Android Desktop Mode Ahead of One UI 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung DeX leads in Android desktop experiences across various device ranges.
    2. Google is delaying the launch of its ‘Desktop View’ feature for a future Android update.
    3. Samsung plans a major revamp of its Android desktop mode with One UI 8.
    4. One UI 8 beta reveals new DeX features, including a dock-like home screen and a reorganized taskbar.
    5. One UI 8 is anticipated to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 this summer.

    Samsung has been at the forefront for many years in the realm of Android desktop modes. While brands like Motorola and Huawei have their own versions, Samsung DeX consistently provides the most refined experience across mid-range devices all the way to flagship models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra (curr. $1,067.99 on Amazon).

    Google’s Plans for Desktop View

    Recent insights suggest that Google is gearing up to launch its long-anticipated alternative. However, it might not be ready in time for Android 16. Instead, indications point to Google delaying ‘Desktop View’ for another significant Android update. In contrast, Samsung appears to be planning a major revamp of its Android desktop mode this year.

    Changes in One UI 8 Beta

    Particularly, SamMobile has uncovered several DeX modifications within a One UI 8 beta version. Thus, certain aspects may shift before Samsung finalizes the stable One UI 8 releases. Still, a few features can be noted at this point.

    For instance, Samsung has positioned all app icons on the home screen of DeX, creating the look of an additional dock. The company has also separated taskbar items like connectivity settings and the clock, now organized similarly to previous notifications. Additionally, One UI 8 introduces a smaller app drawer, a more compact browser tab menu, and upgraded Galaxy Buds, among other features. As it currently stands, One UI 8 is expected to launch with the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 this summer.

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    Samsung DeX Preview: Enhanced Android Desktop Mode Ahead of One UI 8Samsung DeX Preview: Enhanced Android Desktop Mode Ahead of One UI 8Samsung DeX Preview: Enhanced Android Desktop Mode Ahead of One UI 8

     

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  • Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is developing a desktop mode for Pixel devices, inspired by Samsung DeX.
    2. Android 15 introduced a developer preview of “desktop windowing” features for the Pixel Tablet.
    3. Android 16 refined these features, allowing a desktop-like experience with a taskbar and split-screen functionality.
    4. Users can access a quick menu for settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while using the desktop interface.
    5. The desktop feature is still in development and may not be included in the stable release of Android 16.

    Samsung DeX has been a key highlight of Samsung smartphones for a while. It allows users to transform their mobile device into a desktop-like experience. Now, it looks like Google is inspired by this idea. Since the release of Android 14, they’ve been quietly developing their own desktop mode specifically for Pixel devices.

    Android 15 and Desktop Features

    With the launch of Android 15, Google introduced a developer preview of a “desktop windowing” feature aimed at the Pixel Tablet. By the time Android 16 came around, this feature had undergone significant refinement and is now referred to as “Enable desktop experience features.” Thanks to Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, we have an early glimpse at how this feature operates in real life.

    Functionality of Android 16

    Rahman successfully got the desktop feature to work on a Pixel 8 Pro linked to a laptop. The interface resembles a traditional desktop layout with a taskbar at the bottom that includes a three-button navigation system on the right side. The taskbar displays recently used apps, and users can open multiple apps in a split-screen format, much like standard PCs.

    Pulling down from the top reveals a quick access menu. This menu includes common toggles for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with the ability to add or remove options. The battery icon is located at the upper right corner of the home screen, while the time sits on the top left. This design is very much akin to what you would expect from a desktop-style UI, which seems to be the main intention. Importantly, you can still operate your phone while the desktop window is open.

    Still in Development

    While the feature appears to be functional, it is important to note that it is not yet complete. Rahman mentions that it remains a work in progress and “most likely won’t be available in the upcoming stable release of Android 16.” Instead, it may debut in one of the quarterly updates for Android 16, according to his insights.

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    Google's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New FeaturesGoogle's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New FeaturesGoogle's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

     

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