Google’s new desktop mode makes one thing clear: Samsung DeX was onto something

Google has added a built-in desktop mode to Android 16 on supported Pixel phones, bringing windowing, a taskbar, snapping, and shortcuts to external displays.

The feature works, but it still feels less polished and less self-contained than Samsung DeX, which has been refined for years.

The update shows Google is finally taking Android desktop use seriously, while Samsung remains ahead in turning a phone into a practical computer replacement.