Android 16 improves its desktop mode with advanced support for external monitors

Last update: 14/03/2025

  • Android 16 introduces an improved desktop mode that lets you connect smartphones to monitors for a more complete and fluid experience.
  • Advanced features such as screen extension, icon adjustment, and refresh rate customization are in development.
  • The new mode is reminiscent of Samsung DeX, but Google plans deeper integration based on the Android ecosystem.
  • Testing in the Android 16 beta confirms that the feature is not yet enabled by default, but developers have managed to manually enable it.
Android 16 Enhanced Desktop Mode-2

Google is working on an improved desktop mode for Android 16., offering new possibilities for those seeking an experience closer to that of a traditional computer. Recent testing of the beta version of the operating system has revealed Advanced Options for external monitors, which represents a significant advance in the Android ecosystem.

A step forward in integration with external displays

Android 16-4

According to Android Authority and leaks in XDA Developers, Google is experimenting with an improved desktop mode in Android 16. Some testing in the beta version has revealed New options for managing external monitors, although it is not yet clear whether these features will be in the stable version.

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And so far, Most Android smartphones only allow screen mirroring. when connected to an external monitor. A recent report from 9to5Google mentions that the company is looking to offer an experience closer to that of Samsung DeX or Chrome OS, indicating a possible focus on productivity and multitasking.

Yes, This feature is not enabled by default in the beta., but the developers have managed to enable it manually. This improvement would allow better organize applications and take advantage of a more comfortable interface on larger monitors.

Highlights of the new desktop mode

Among the improvements in desktop mode are several features that seek to optimize the user experience:

  • Free cursor movement between the phone screen and the external monitor.
  • Option to extend or duplicate screen according to the needs of the user.
  • Possibility to adjust the size of icons and text on the secondary screen.
  • Control over the monitor refresh rate to improve visual fluency.
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These options resemble systems like Chrome OS, which suggests Google's interest in increasingly unifying both platforms. If you'd like to learn more about desktop configurations, visit the article on How to configure the new desktop mode in Windows 11.

When will this feature be available?

It is currently unknown whether all of these features will be available in the final version of Android 16 or if they will be implemented in future updatesIn any case, this development demonstrates Google's intention to offer a more versatile solution for those seeking greater productivity from their phones.

Support for external monitors is still experimental, but the direction taken by Google suggests that Android is evolving to become a more versatile platform, able to better adapt to different work and entertainment environments.

If this functionality is fully implemented in the final version, Android 16 could mark a turning point in the integration of smartphones with larger devices. The possibility of use a mobile phone as a portable workstation It's an attractive idea that could change the way we interact with technology on a daily basis.

Activate the desktop version on your Smartphone
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Activate the desktop version on your Smartphone