In April, whispers began circulating about Google’s ambitions to enhance Android’s desktop mode, with early demonstrations hinting at a more user-friendly experience featuring movable windows. However, the project seemed to fade from the spotlight until it resurfaced recently in the latest Android 15 Beta 4.1 release. Android expert Mishaal Rahman has uncovered that this feature may extend its capabilities to tablets, provided they boast a sufficiently large display. Within the device’s ‘Recents’ view, users can now find a new button labeled “Desktop” in the dropdown menu for applications.
Rahman’s demonstration showcases a significant evolution in functionality, allowing users to minimize, maximize, and arrange apps side by side, reminiscent of Samsung’s DeX system. The taskbar at the bottom displays all currently open applications, creating a multitasking environment that includes Chrome, Gmail, and the Calculator app. While these features may appear basic compared to other operating systems, their inclusion marks a notable advancement from earlier iterations, which were rather rudimentary.
Side-by-side experiences
The prospect of Android’s desktop mode coexisting with the traditional tablet interface is particularly intriguing. Users could seamlessly switch between the desktop layout and the familiar tablet experience, providing the flexibility to choose the most suitable environment for their tasks. This duality could offer Google a distinctive advantage over Samsung’s DeX, which, while providing a similar experience, tends to dominate the device’s interface. Google’s approach appears to prioritize adaptability, although the ultimate execution remains to be seen.
Possible launch window
Despite the promising developments, it seems that Android’s desktop mode is not poised for an imminent release. The feature is still under construction, and while it has made an appearance in Android 15, a launch within the next three months appears unlikely. Rumors surrounding a potential Pixel Tablet 2 have been gaining traction, leading to speculation that Android’s desktop mode could debut alongside this new device. However, this remains conjecture, and it is prudent to approach such leaks with caution. Nevertheless, the ongoing development offers a glimmer of hope for users eager for enhanced functionality in the Android ecosystem.