Samsung's recent decision to cease support for its DeX for Windows app means a shift for users who have enjoyed turning their Windows PCs into a virtual Samsung DeX environment. The company has confirmed that this functionality will vanish with the rollout of the upcoming OneUI 7 update, directing users to utilize Microsoft Phone Link as a replacement. But what does this mean for the future of Samsung’s DeX and your Windows experience? Let's dive into the details.
However, Samsung's decision to pull the plug on DeX for Windows signifies a shift. With the OneUI 7 update, users who relied on the DeX for Windows app will need to find new ways to access DeX's functionalities via a PC. As stated in a footnote on the Samsung DeX website, “The DeX for PC on Windows OS will end support from One UI 7 version. We encourage customers to connect mobile phone and PC through the Link to Windows feature.”
Samsung DeX isn’t disappearing altogether. It will live on for users who connect their devices directly to external displays, such as TVs or dedicated DeX peripherals, allowing users to continue enjoying its desktop features away from the confines of a PC. This approach harkens back to Microsoft's earlier Continuum concept—the idea of a smartphone morphing into a PC when connected to a larger screen.
In this ever-evolving tech landscape, staying informed and adaptable is essential. Share your thoughts and experiences with both DeX and Microsoft Phone Link in the comments below. How do you feel about this transition? Are you already exploring new ways to connect your devices? Join the conversation!
Source: Windows Central Samsung is killing DeX for Windows — suggests Microsoft Phone Link as a replacement
The End of DeX for Windows
So, what is DeX? Samsung DeX, short for "Desktop Experience," enables users to connect their Samsung devices to monitors or PCs, allowing them to use their smartphone's interface in a desktop-like mode. It turns your mobile phone into a full-fledged PC environment, allowing multitasking, document editing, and more, which can be a game-changer for productivity.However, Samsung's decision to pull the plug on DeX for Windows signifies a shift. With the OneUI 7 update, users who relied on the DeX for Windows app will need to find new ways to access DeX's functionalities via a PC. As stated in a footnote on the Samsung DeX website, “The DeX for PC on Windows OS will end support from One UI 7 version. We encourage customers to connect mobile phone and PC through the Link to Windows feature.”
Enter Microsoft Phone Link
What is Microsoft Phone Link? Formerly known as Your Phone, Microsoft’s Phone Link is an application designed to bridge the gap between your Windows PC and your Android smartphone. With it, you can receive notifications, read text messages, and even run mobile apps directly on your Windows 11 desktop. While Phone Link offers some of the similar conveniences users found with DeX—like syncing apps and notifications—it lacks the key feature of providing direct access to the DeX desktop environment.Key Features of Microsoft Phone Link:
- Notification Sync: Get notifications from your phone on your PC, so you never miss important alerts.
- Messaging Access: Send and receive text messages from your computer, handy for those who prefer typing on a full keyboard.
- Access Phone Apps: Run mobile apps directly on your Windows desktop—perfect for quick tasks.
What’s Missing?
As convenient as Phone Link can be, it doesn't fully replicate the desktop-like capabilities that Samsung DeX offered. Users won't have access to the traditional DeX interface that allowed for true multitasking in a more expansive screen real estate. For users who frequently used DeX for productivity, this could be a significant drawback.Samsung DeX isn’t disappearing altogether. It will live on for users who connect their devices directly to external displays, such as TVs or dedicated DeX peripherals, allowing users to continue enjoying its desktop features away from the confines of a PC. This approach harkens back to Microsoft's earlier Continuum concept—the idea of a smartphone morphing into a PC when connected to a larger screen.
The Reality Check
Despite the forthcoming changes, the number of users reliant on DeX for Windows has likely been small, which might explain why Samsung is choosing this path. While many tech enthusiasts appreciated the seamless integration, the broader user base has predominantly utilized standalone DeX support via external displays or devices like the NextDock that cater specifically to the DeX experience.Conclusion
As Samsung users brace for the discontinuation of DeX for Windows, it’s vital to explore alternative ways to leverage your devices. For many, Microsoft Phone Link might become a suitable compromise, bridging gaps without fully replacing the DeX experience. If you’re a dedicated DeX user, you may want to invest in alternative hardware solutions to retain the productivity features you’ve come to rely on.In this ever-evolving tech landscape, staying informed and adaptable is essential. Share your thoughts and experiences with both DeX and Microsoft Phone Link in the comments below. How do you feel about this transition? Are you already exploring new ways to connect your devices? Join the conversation!
Source: Windows Central Samsung is killing DeX for Windows — suggests Microsoft Phone Link as a replacement
