Google’s Upgraded Android Desktop Mode: Anticipating Improvements for Android 15

When many people come across the term "desktop mode" on Android they often think of Samsung’s DeX or Motorola’s ready for platforms, which are known for being some of the…

By Hardik Dhamija

April 7, 2024

2 min read

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When many people come across the term “desktop mode” on Android they often think of Samsung’s DeX or Motorola’s ready for platforms, which are known for being some of the custom implementations. However, what many may not realize is that Google’s AOSP also has its Desktop mode.

Initially introduced in Android 10, it was quite basic. Mainly aimed at helping developers test apps in display setups.

More About Google’s Android Desktop Mode

Over time Desktop mode has seen improvements now allowing for a side-by-side mode with two apps on the screen. Additional multitasking features are available through the window experience though there are some limitations.

Recent findings indicate that Google is actively enhancing its Windows Android desktop interface as seen in discoveries made by Android Authority while examining developer settings in the latest Android 14 QPR3 2.1 beta version.

A demonstration of the window experience can be seen in the accompanying video. Essentially, it introduces a title bar with a menu that appears when tapping a small handle on top of a fullscreen app. This menu provides options to switch to fullscreen view, split screen mode, or freeform layout.

When you switch to freeform mode, you can adjust windows easily. There’s a handy “snap to edge” feature that helps place windows on either side of the screen. Now you can smoothly shift from a fullscreen app to a window by just grabbing and moving the new handle. However, some things missing: window positioning options, keyboard shortcuts, for snapping, and a special desktop launcher.

These significant enhancements in productivity and usability are anticipated to coincide with the launch of Android 15, possibly being promoted as part of the Pixel 9 experience upon the release of said devices later this autumn. Google’s recent activation of display output on the Pixel 8 series indicates a renewed emphasis on this feature, suggesting a strategic focus on enhancing user experience.