First Look at Google's Unfinished DeX-Like Desktop Mode for Android
Google is developing a new desktop interface called "Desktop View" for Android phones.
"Desktop View" will include features like a persistent taskbar and freeform, resizable windows.
While still a work in progress, the new desktop mode shows Google's progress towards offering a PC-like multitasking experience.
For years, if you've wanted to plug your Android phone into a monitor and get something that felt remotely like a desktop, your only option has essentially been Samsung DeX. It offers a proper multi-window interface, a taskbar, and the ability to use your phone like a PC. Meanwhile, Android's offering for other devices has been extremely lacking. That appears to be changing.
Last year, Google finally allowed Pixel phones to mirror their displays to external screens. Then, earlier this year, Google was working on a developer option for desktop mode. Now, deep dives into the Android code are revealing Google's ambitions for a more robust desktop environment, currently dubbed "Desktop View." This isn't just a tweaked interface for tablets; it's designed to work when you connect your phone to an external display, giving you a layout that's far more conducive to getting work done with a keyboard and mouse.
'Desktop View' includes features such as a persistent taskbar, much like you'd find on Windows or ChromeOS. This bar will reportedly give you quick access to your pinned apps and show your recently used ones, making switching between tasks much smoother than the standard Android recent apps view. More importantly, the system is being built to handle multiple apps running in resizable, freeform windows. You can apparently also drag and drop content between windows if the apps support it. This is crucial for getting that true PC-like multitasking experience.
While this early desktop mode is showing significant progress, it's important to temper expectations slightly. First, it's still clearly a work in progress, tucked away in developer options in current beta builds. Right now, it's essentially a modified version of Android's windowing mode that you can currently see on tablets and foldables. So, it's unlikely that we'll see this as a finished product in Android 16.
However, the fact that Google is actively developing these features and building upon the basic windowing capabilities introduced in earlier Android versions is a good sign. Google has also been working on bringing external display tools to Android–things like the ability to rearrange displays and move a mouse between displays. It feels like Google is finally ready to offer an alternative to DeX for those who don't want a Samsung phone, turning your phone into a real pocket computer.
Source: Android Authority
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Engadget
an hour ago
- Engadget
Google Search uses AI-generated podcast hosts to answer your questions
Instead of digging through all the top search results, you can now ask Google Search to give you a comprehensive AI-generated summary with its Audio Overviews feature. The AI feature uses Google Gemini models to create a short audio clip that sounds like a conversational podcast with two hosts. It's not ideal for your basic search queries like finding out when Father's Day is, but it's helpful if you want an in-depth and hands-free response to the history and significance of Flag Day. The Audio Overviews option pulls from the front page Google Search results and compiles them into an audio summary where two voices bounce off each other for a more engaging answer. You can also adjust the volume and playback speed between 0.25x and 2x. Audio Overviews even includes the webpages it pulls the info from, letting you continue down the Google Search rabbit hole. It's not the first time Google has offered its Audio Overviews tool, but it was previously reserved for its NotebookLM tool. Google expanded on this feature by making Audio Overviews within NotebookLM more interactive, allowing you to ask the AI hosts questions in real-time, and added a "Deep Dive" option to get the AI to focus on a specific topic. To test out the Audio Overviews as part of Google Search, you have to opt into the Google Labs feature on its website.
Entrepreneur
an hour ago
- Entrepreneur
Streamline Your Workflow With This $30 Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 License
Outfit your PC with seven helpful apps thanks to this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license. Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you'll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. TL;DR: Secure a Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license for only $29.97 (reg. $229) through July 20. Entrepreneurs clock an average of 52 hours a week, often juggling everything from emails to spreadsheets, according to Shopify's Entrepreneurship Trends 2024 report. If you're hoping to streamline your workflow and need some helpful tools to shave some time off that average, Microsoft Office can help. Now is your chance to rediscover these tried-and-true apps with a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows on sale for just $29.99 (reg. $229) through July 20. Unlock 7 essential Microsoft Office apps for one low price Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows is ready to help you tackle your workday, providing must-have apps that let you get more done. This particular license comes with seven helpful tools. You can draft a document in Word and then send it in Outlook. You can also create a spreadsheet in Excel and present it in PowerPoint to colleagues. You'll also have access to newer additions like OneNote, Publisher, and Access. With this deal, each costs less than $4. This license lets you enjoy these apps for life, no subscriptions required. It's a 2019 edition, but don't think that means it's outdated. It has been redesigned with improved cloud connectivity and enhanced features, like new presentation tools in PowerPoint, updated email and contact management features in Outlook, and new analysis capabilities in Excel. Make sure you're running Windows 10 or 11 before making a purchase. You'll receive an instant download after purchase. If you encounter any issues, you can contact Microsoft's free customer support. Outfit your PC with a Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license for only $29.97 (reg. $229) through July 20. StackSocial prices subject to change.
Time Business News
2 hours ago
- Time Business News
Drive Smart: How to Buy Tyres Online and Get the Best Tyre Deals Today
Finding the right tyres for your vehicle doesn't have to be a stressful or expensive experience anymore. With the rise of digital convenience, more people now choose to buy tyres online for their cars, getting unbeatable savings and a wide variety in one go. Shopping from home is no longer just for clothes or gadgets—it's a smart move when it comes to keeping your car in peak condition too. Thanks to advanced e-commerce solutions and reliable online tyre stores, you can avoid the usual hassles of visiting multiple tyre shops, waiting in lines, or settling for overpriced options. With just a few clicks, you can browse through hundreds of car tyres and compare cheap tyres side-by-side, all from the comfort of your home or office. The traditional method of buying tyres involved traveling to a physical shop, listening to a salesperson's pitch, and often paying a premium for convenience. However, digital platforms now allow users to buy tyres online with full transparency. You can access detailed specs, genuine customer reviews, and competitive pricing—ensuring you're making an informed choice. Moreover, the online market gives you access to brands and best tyre deals you wouldn't easily find locally. Whether you're looking for economy tyres, premium brands, or seasonal options, digital tyre retailers are increasingly providing fast delivery, local fitting partners, and exclusive online discounts. Everyone wants quality at the lowest price. But finding the best tyre deals requires more than a quick Google search. Reliable online tyre platforms usually offer bundle discounts, free delivery, and even cashback options on selected brands. Signing up for newsletters or following these platforms on social media can often get you access to hidden savings or flash sales. Some websites also include price-matching guarantees or promotions on cheap tyres, especially during seasonal sales or festive periods. By planning your tyre purchase in advance, rather than waiting for an emergency, you can take full advantage of these cost-saving opportunities and avoid the inflated prices of last-minute purchases. A common misconception is that cheap tyres are low in quality or unsafe. However, many budget tyre brands invest heavily in R&D and offer excellent performance for daily driving conditions. The online market is competitive, which means many tyre manufacturers price their products attractively to gain more customers. That being said, not all cheap tyres are created equal. It's important to rely on websites that provide verified reviews and ratings. When you buy tyres online, make sure to check the EU tyre label (for rolling resistance, wet grip, and noise levels), which gives a quick indication of performance without needing to be a tyre expert. One of the biggest perks of online shopping is customization. You can filter car tyres by your vehicle model, tyre size, driving conditions, or even fuel efficiency. The user-friendly interfaces on major tyre sites make it simple for even a first-time buyer to make the right selection. In addition to convenience, you'll often find value-added services like mobile fitting or next-day delivery. Many services will ship tyres directly to your preferred installer or garage, so you never have to worry about transportation or logistics. This seamless experience is why more drivers prefer to buy tyres online rather than visit a shop. When it comes to purchasing car essentials online, being informed is key. Always double-check your tyre size, read real user reviews, and don't hesitate to reach out to customer service if you have questions. Also, look for online retailers that provide warranty or return options in case something doesn't fit as expected. Don't just go for the first cheap tyres you see. It's worth spending an extra minute comparing similar models based on speed rating, tread wear, and brand reliability. With so many choices online, the perfect match for your car and budget is definitely out there. Before you buy tyres online, make sure to have your vehicle's tyre specifications ready—this includes size, load index, and speed rating. These are usually printed on the side of your current tyres. Selecting the wrong size can lead to poor performance or even damage. Also, consider your driving environment. If you mostly drive in urban areas, fuel-efficient and quiet car tyres may suit you best. For off-road or heavy-duty use, durability should take priority. Online stores usually offer filters and descriptions to help guide this choice. Smart shoppers know that online platforms usually have lower operational costs, and these savings are passed directly to customers. This is one reason you'll often find best tyre deals online that physical stores simply can't match. From free delivery to bulk discounts, digital tyre shops are designed to give you more value for your money. Also, online reviews and comparison tools empower you to make smarter decisions. You no longer have to rely solely on a salesperson's recommendation. Instead, you can compare multiple car tyres side by side and choose the one that fits your needs perfectly without blowing your budget. Buying tyres used to be a chore, but now it's a strategic and satisfying experience thanks to digital convenience. Whether you're chasing cheap tyres that still deliver strong performance or searching for the best tyre deals on high-end brands, online platforms offer it all. The next time your car needs new tyres, consider making the switch to online shopping. You'll not only save time and money but also enjoy a wider selection, detailed insights, and the peace of mind that comes with making an informed purchase. Choose to buy tyres online and experience how simple, smart, and satisfying car maintenance can really be. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
