If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to retire your laptop for certain trips or quick tasks, the short answer is yes, and the mobile ecosystem has reached an amazing point. Samsung DeX has been a pioneer in this area, allowing us to transform a simple phone into a complete workstation—something that seemed like magic a few years ago but is now a real productivity tool.
However, the landscape has recently changed with the arrival of Android 16 and its native desktop mode . Now it's no longer just a privilege for Galaxy users; Google has decided to open the door to other manufacturers, although, as is always the case in technology, there are important differences between a solution refined over almost a decade and a new feature that has just arrived on the market.
Which devices can take advantage of Samsung DeX?
To avoid guesswork, the first thing to do is check if your device is compatible. For phones, the Galaxy S family is almost entirely covered, from the S8 series to the cutting-edge S25 . If you prefer the Note series, you'll find support from the Note8 to the Note20. As for foldable phones, the list is extensive: from the original Fold to the Z Fold7 , including the Z Flip7 . However, note that the Z Flip7 FE model is excluded as it doesn't support HDMI output or wireless connectivity.
For those who prefer larger screens, the Galaxy Tab series offers solid support, from the Tab S4 to the Tab S11 series with enhanced DeX , including the Tab Active. However, be aware that some specific versions are not compatible; for example, the Tab S9 FE, Tab S10 Lite, Tab S10 Plus, and Tab S10 FE do not support HDMI output, so you won't be able to use them wired on a monitor.
How to set up your mobile desktop step by step
Setting up the setup is quite simple if you have the right cable. The first step is to connect the USB-C end to the device and the HDMI end to the display. An important detail is that if you disconnect the cable, the system will restart, so save all your work before unplugging it to avoid any surprises.
Once connected, unlock your phone. If it's your first time, a notification will appear on the screen; simply tap Home to enter desktop mode. If for some reason you don't see the notification, don't worry: swipe down with two fingers to open the quick settings panel and manually activate the DeX icon.
Sometimes, the screen will simply mirror what you see on your phone. To switch to true DeX mode, pull down the notification shade, tap the Samsung DeX notification, and confirm your selection . From here, you can use your phone's screen as a touchpad (click in the bottom left corner) to move the cursor on the monitor. To exit this environment, go to the app menu on the monitor screen and select Exit DeX.
The battle: Samsung DeX versus Android 16 desktop mode
Google has launched its own version with Android 16, integrating an interface with a taskbar and resizable windows that is very reminiscent of Windows or macOS. This feature is native to the operating system , meaning that any brand that doesn't use excessively heavy-duty custom interfaces could implement it. In fact, the Pixel 8, 9, and 10 already do so via DisplayPort Alt Mode, although the Pixel 7 and earlier models are excluded due to hardware limitations.
Although Google has covered the basics, Samsung still leads the way. DeX is software that has been maturing for nine years, and this is evident in its stability and refinement . While Google's mode can still feel like a phone trying to be a computer, DeX truly behaves like a PC. Samsung offers more precise window management , much more consistent peripheral support (mouse and keyboard), and the ability to keep the desktop active even when the phone's screen is off.
Interestingly, with One UI 8 and its new features , Samsung has decided to rebuild DeX on the native Android 16 base, adding its own proprietary improvements. This creates a kind of technological convergence where Samsung leverages Google's foundation but adds that "professional touch" that power users need.
Which one should you choose based on your user profile?
If you're someone who only needs to connect your phone to a screen to write an email , review a PDF, or check a spreadsheet occasionally, Android 16's desktop mode on a Pixel is more than enough. There's no point in spending more if your needs are so infrequent.
However, if your workflow involves spending more than four hours a week in this "mobile-PC" mode, investing in a Galaxy S25 Ultra or a Z Fold7 is the most sensible option. The difference in productivity and the absence of bugs typical of new software make for a much smoother experience. Even so, for extremely demanding tasks, a budget laptop remains more efficient than any mobile solution currently available.
The evolution of these tools indicates that we are heading towards a point where the difference between Google's and Samsung's modes will be minimal, probably around 2028. For now, the key lies in the fact that Samsung has been able to refine every detail , offering a robust tool that allows for a level of ease of use that the rest of the Android industry is only just beginning to glimpse.
