One thing to look ahead to: Google is on observe to launch Android 15 later this 12 months, that includes enhanced machine safety, improved digital camera optimization, and extra AI capabilities. The replace can be anticipated to incorporate a revamped desktop mode expertise, making it simpler to make use of a smartphone as a full-fledged pc when docked to an exterior monitor.
Android already has a barebones desktop mode that was launched as a part of Android 10 in 2019. Nevertheless, the expertise leaves lots to be desired, as it’s not meant for end-users. As a substitute, it’s supposed for builders to assist them check how their apps may behave in multi-display situations. In actual fact, the function stays hidden from public view and may solely be enabled from inside Developer Choices.
That’s anticipated to vary with Android 15, as Google is about so as to add help for a full-fledged desktop mode. As a part of its preparations so as to add the brand new performance to Android, Google not too long ago launched DisplayPort help to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Professional, enabling customers to simply join their smartphones to exterior screens. In line with Android Authority, the corporate has additionally been sharpening the multi-window expertise in Android to enhance the desktop expertise for customers.
Whereas the brand new desktop mode is at present behind a number of flags to forestall customers from accessing it earlier than its official announcement, Rahman managed to get the function to work on his machine. He discovered that though the adjustments make for a a lot better desktop expertise, it nonetheless has “a protracted method to go earlier than it might match present desktop working methods.”
The shortage of a sturdy desktop launcher, the unavailability of most keyboard shortcuts used for window administration, and the dearth of help for drag-and-drop options inside most apps imply that the revamped desktop mode in Android is way from a completed product, at the least within the pre-release variations of Android 15. Whether or not the ultimate product will repair these flaws and supply a correct computing expertise stays to be seen.
Though Google has been sluggish in providing a full-fledged desktop mode in Android, some smartphone producers like Samsung and Motorola have been bundling their very own desktop experiences with their Android units for years.
Samsung’s DeX desktop mode was first launched with the Galaxy S8 in 2017, whereas Motorola gives a display screen mirroring expertise referred to as “Prepared For” (not too long ago renamed “Sensible Join”) in a few of its telephones.
