Samsung has made a big update to its DeX feature in One UI 8. This new version now uses Android 16’s new desktop mode. That means the DeX experience is faster, smoother, and looks more like a real computer.
Let’s take a look at what’s new in Samsung DeX with One UI 8, what’s different, and why this update matters.
What Is Samsung DeX?
Samsung DeX is a feature that turns your Samsung phone into a computer. You can connect your phone to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Then, you get a desktop-like screen that you can use just like a PC.
DeX started in 2017 with the Galaxy S8. Since then, Samsung has improved it a lot. Now, with One UI 8 and Android 16, it gets its biggest upgrade in years.
Android 16 Adds Desktop Mode
At Google I/O 2024, Google announced that Android 16 would support desktop mode. That means Android phones can now offer a better desktop experience when connected to a monitor.
Samsung has used this new desktop mode to rebuild DeX. The company added its own design and tools on top of Google’s system. The result? A fresh, new DeX that is smarter and easier to use.
Devices That Support the New DeX
The new DeX experience is launching first on:
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Galaxy Z Fold 7
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Galaxy Z Flip 7
Other high-end Samsung phones may get the update later. These could include the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy Tab S10, and more.
What’s New in Samsung DeX on One UI 8?
Even though the new DeX looks a lot like the old one, there are some important changes. Let’s look at the top new features.
1. Faster and Smoother
Because it uses Android 16’s desktop engine, the new DeX is faster. Apps open quicker, and there is less lag when switching between windows.
2. Vertical App Drawer
The app drawer now scrolls up and down (vertical), not side to side. This feels more natural and similar to how apps work on a PC.
3. Taskbar Matches Your Phone
The DeX taskbar now mirrors your phone’s dock. If you have apps like YouTube, Gmail, or Chrome pinned on your phone, they will also appear in DeX. This makes things feel more connected.
4. New Quick Settings Look
When you open the Quick Panel in DeX, it now shows a new layout. It’s cleaner and easier to tap with a mouse or touchpad.
5. “Connected Display” in Settings
The old “DeX” tab is gone from the Settings app. Now, when you connect to a monitor, you will see a section called “Connected display.” This shows display options and DeX controls.
6. “Exit DeX” Moved
You will no longer find the “Exit DeX” button in the app drawer. It has been moved, possibly to the taskbar or system tray.
What’s Missing or Still Needs Work?
This new DeX experience is still in beta, so it’s not perfect. Some users have found bugs, slowdowns, or missing features. That’s normal for early versions.
Samsung may fix these problems in future updates. Also, since this is built on Android 16, it may change again before the final version comes out.
How to Use the New Samsung DeX
To try the new DeX, you need:
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A Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Flip 7 (for now)
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A USB-C to HDMI cable, or a DeX station
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A monitor
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Optional: Bluetooth or USB mouse and keyboard
Connect your phone, open DeX, and enjoy the new desktop mode!
If you don’t have one of the new phones, you can still use the old DeX on many Samsung phones like the S23 or Tab S9.
Why This Matters
Samsung DeX is more than just a cool feature. It helps people work without needing a laptop. You can write emails, edit documents, and join video calls — all using your phone.
Now that DeX uses Android 16’s desktop mode, it becomes a part of a bigger plan. Google is trying to make Android more useful on large screens. Samsung is helping by improving DeX.
If this works well, we may see even more powerful phones that can replace PCs in the future.
What’s Next for DeX?
Samsung may keep improving DeX in future One UI updates. We might see:
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Better support for games and video apps
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Drag and drop between windows
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More multi-monitor options
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And more tools for work and school
Samsung is also likely to bring this version of DeX to more phones and tablets soon.
Final Thoughts
Samsung DeX in One UI 8 is a big step forward. By using Android 16’s desktop mode, Samsung is giving users a better way to work from their phone. It may not be perfect yet, but it’s a strong start.
If you have a Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Flip 7, try it now. If not, keep an eye out — this new DeX could be coming to your phone next.
