It has been widely reported that Android 16 (to be rolled out as part of One UI 8 on Samsung devices) provides an updates desktop mode experience. Samsung and Google have been collaborating on this apparently and it sounds like DeX will be rolled into (or be replaced by, depending on how you look at it) by this stock android experience.
I am curious to hear your thoughts and opinions on this. I realise we don't have One UI betas in Australia but if any of you had some play time with one of the betas, what are your thoughts? I've always felt that DeX had so much potential and needed just a bit of extra push to become a viable desktop/laptop replacement option. With this change though, I am a bit worried we might take a step back before we step forward again as the experience gets rebuilt. So on the one hand I am excited that Samsung and Google are working on this (which could give it the necessary push) but also a bit apprehensive whether they get it right. Unfortunately, a lot of the first mover advantage has been given up and now Apple are in the game more so than ever with recently announced iPadOS 26 enhancements.
Fingers crossed we get a solid initial release with regular enhancements to follow.
Can’t speak for the beta myself, but I’m with you – DeX always had so much potential. Really hope this new Android desktop mode builds on what DeX already does, not strip features away.
Still, awesome to see Samsung and Google teaming up on it. Could even tie into Project Moohan and Android XR down the line.
Agreed. Also, indications are that Google is prioritising Android over ChromeOS (and may even replace it). If true, this could unify things nicely. Google has been touting the new multi form factor support for Android apps (adaptive apps). This of course could tie in with things like Project Moohan and Android XR as well, although I think Android XR is already specialised for immersive experiences and devices. We'll see. Interesting times that's for sure.
