Android Desktop mode, Now a reality – Code leaked from Google

Published on: 2025-05-19

2025-05-19

Google is secretly preparing for desktop mode for Android devices, similar to Samsung Dex. According to sources, the desktop mode will offer a large-screen interface similar to Samsung Dex and Moto Smart Connect. Google has been working on desktop mode since 2023, but now it looks like we will see the launch very soon.

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Desktop mode in Android- Do we need it?

Android Desktop mode is a feature that allows users to connect with larger screens and use Android more conveniently. The phone interface will be the standard desktop layout if this option is enabled. It will have app shortcuts, a taskbar-like bar, and fully resizable windows. Compared to the standard Android screen, the arrangement will provide greater versatility. It will function similarly to how applications are handled by Windows or Chrome OS.

So, the question is, do we need it? Well, it depends on the users. If you want to do a certain task that requires a bigger screen, and you don’t want to log in or share data with your Windows laptop to get the work done (in short, lazy), then Android Desktop mode is for you.

How does Desktop mode work?

To use Android Desktop mode, users need a USB-C cable to connect an external display, or it might connect wirelessly in the future. It wouldn’t be shocking if Google eventually included wireless options, like Samsung and Motorola currently do.

Android Desktop mode launch date

There is no official launch date for Android Desktop mode; according to leaked codes, it is still under development and needs some final touches before launch. It was already stated that Android 16 will provide this new desktop experience. Even a new developer option called “Enable desktop experience features” was included in the most recent Android 16 beta release. When activated, a Pixel running the aforementioned beta was connected to a laptop, and the functionality showed the well-known Android taskbar, three-button navigation access, and other choices.

This assures that the desktop mode will not be released with Android 16, but it might launch next year with Android 17 (expected). The Pixel will be the first device that will have desktop mode (officially from Google).

Any feature that enhances a smartphone’s use is a positive advancement. A standard phone might be used as a small work device using Android Desktop Mode. The user could easily surf the web, compose emails, and edit documents if they had a huge screen, mouse, and keyboard. Additionally, this might serve as a backup configuration for people who are constantly on the road. It has the potential to revolutionize productivity.

In summary, this action demonstrates Google’s commitment to big-screen productivity. A native Android desktop mode might result in wider acceptance, even if Samsung and Motorola have long held the lead in this area. This is especially true if Google improves the user experience and adds support for more devices over time.
Until then, everyone’s eyes will be on Android 17 and the next Pixel phones, which might finally introduce Google’s desktop experience.

Android Desktop mode eligible devices (Expected)

Most of the smartphones have desktop features, like Samsung, Huawei, Motorola, etc. So, all the premium devices will receive the desktop mode feature.

Pixel Devices