Samsung DeX could finally see a big makeover according to One UI 8 test build

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It could use Android 16's desktop mode

Samsung DeX on Galaxy S25 Ultra .
(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

Android 16 might finally bring a desktop mode to the mobile operating system for the first time, and Samsung may be iterating on top of it with a design of its desktop mode DeX, similar to its One UI skin.

If you haven't used DeX before, it's a desktop client Samsung built on top of Android that enables Galaxy smartphones to run a UI that mimics a desktop PC when plugged into or wirelessly connected to an external monitor. Samsung tablets have this feature natively using their own displays.

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Leaked images of Samsung DeX in One UI 8 test version
(Image credit: DevOfIpos)

Both Google and Samsung are moving up their usual timelines for releasing new versions of their operating systems this year. And DevOfIpos on X, spotted a new version of in a test version of One UI 8, which should launch in July.

According to Ipos, they were able to get this redesigned DeX running on a Galaxy S25 Ultra that has a test version One UI 8 installed.

From what we can see in screenshots they posted, the updated DeX utilizes a taskbar that opens up an app drawer, a new Quick Settings design and window management.

A number of these features already exist, but the look and feel appears different, more in line with the reported Google version of a desktop mode.

We've written before that Samsung DeX is an underrated feature that other phones should copy but also needs to be improved. Hopefully, Google's version pushes Samsung to innovate a bit.

DevOfIpos also pointed a couple of other One UI 8 updates including improved Galaxy Buds integration for older models, a new Quick Share app, and even more blurring of settings screens.

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Scott Younker
Scott Younker
West Coast Reporter

Scott Younker is the West Coast Reporter at Tom’s Guide. He covers all the lastest tech news. He’s been involved in tech since 2011 at various outlets and is on an ongoing hunt to build the easiest to use home media system. When not writing about the latest devices, you are more than welcome to discuss board games or disc golf with him. He also handles all the Connections coverage on Tom's Guide and has been playing the addictive NYT game since it released.

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