Android Desktop Mode is Coming Soon!

Google has reportedly been developing a dedicated desktop mode for Android smartphones and tablets for quite some time. This feature, referred to as “Android Desktop Mode,” is now expected to debut with Android 17, rather than Android 16 as initially anticipated.

The upcoming desktop mode is estimated to offer functionality comparable to platforms like Samsung DeX and Motorola Connect, enabling users to swiftly switch between mobile and desktop interfaces.

Prominent tipster Mishaal Rahman recently shared some details about Android Desktop Mode during a livestream on X (formerly Twitter). According to Rahman, this new experience will allow users to connect their smartphones to larger screens and operate them with a desktop-style interface. He noted that when a phone such as a Google Pixel is connected via USB Type-C to an external display like a laptop, the interface will shift to resemble that of a desktop environment.

The Android Desktop Mode is expected to support multitasking features such as window resizing and freeform movement across the screen. In addition to this, standard desktop functionalities like an app management system, seamless switching between mobile and desktop interfaces, and enhanced navigation elements are also likely to be included.

Previous reports had suggested that this feature would be released with Android 16. In fact, a recent Android 16 beta update introduced a new developer option labeled “Enable Desktop Experience Features.” When this option was activated on the beta version of a Pixel phone connected to a laptop, users reportedly gained access to the Android taskbar, three-button navigation, and other desktop-like controls, as detailed by Rahman.

However, Rahman speculated that the feature’s launch might be delayed. He stated that Google likely requires additional time to refine the user interface, suggesting that the desktop mode may not be ready in time for Android 16. Instead, it is now speculated that the feature could make its debut with Android 17 on next-generation Pixel devices.

According to earlier reports, this new desktop experience could include a taskbar featuring pinned apps such as Phone, Messages, Camera, and Chrome. The feature has generated considerable anticipation among technology enthusiasts.