Samsung DeX Gets Revamped with Android 16's Desktop Mode

Samsung has revamped DeX for One UI 8 based on Android 16's desktop mode, with a fresh coat of paint and new functionality. The new experience feels near-identical to the previous one, but with some changes such as the removal of the "Exit DeX" button and the addition of vertical scrolling in the app drawer. The taskbar now mirrors docked apps on the phone's display, and there are other quality of life tweaks. Overall, DeX feels more complete compared to Android 16's stock desktop mode.

Samsung has introduced significant changes to its DeX feature in One UI 8, aligning it with Android 16's desktop mode. The new DeX experience offers a fresh look and new functionalities, aiming to enhance the desktop capabilities of Samsung's devices. While some users may miss the old features, the revamp promises a more cohesive and future-proof experience.

One of the most notable changes is the removal of the "Exit DeX" button, which allowed users to exit the DeX mode. This feature has been replaced by a more intuitive method of switching between DeX and regular modes. Additionally, the taskbar now mirrors the docked apps on the phone's display, providing a more seamless transition between devices.

The app drawer in the new DeX has been redesigned to include vertical scrolling, making it easier to navigate through a large number of apps. The taskbar and header bar remain on screen even when watching a full-screen video, ensuring that users can access important functions without interruption.

While some classic features have been removed, such as the ability to snap windows to the top and the "Exit DeX" button, the new DeX retains most of the basic functionality of the classic experience. Samsung has also added new features, such as the ability to rearrange the phone and external display in virtual space, enhancing the overall user experience.

The revamp of DeX in One UI 8 is part of Samsung's broader strategy to align its devices with Google's native desktop capabilities. By doing so, Samsung can focus on building features on top of Google's native Desktop Mode, ensuring that its devices stay up-to-date with the latest developments in Android.

Overall, the new DeX experience in One UI 8 offers a more complete and cohesive desktop experience compared to Android 16's stock desktop mode. While some users may miss the old features, the revamp promises a more future-proof and intuitive experience.

References:
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/1m89joz/one_ui_8_has_replaced_the_classic_dex_experience/
[2] https://www.androidauthority.com/one-ui-8-classic-dex-3580755/