Android 16 Beta 3 aims to enhance external display support, striving for a more desktop-like experience. A new setting labeled “Enable desktop experience features” is now available in developer options. This feature could allow users to activate desktop mode solely on an external display or simultaneously on both a phone and monitor. However, this exciting functionality is currently hampered by a bug.
Google seems to be gearing up for a significant evolution in Android to transform it into a comprehensive desktop experience. Yet, to achieve this goal, the operating system needs substantial improvements in compatibility with standard peripherals and displays. While Android does have a desktop mode, it still falls short of meeting user expectations for replacing traditional operating systems like Windows or macOS. Nevertheless, Android 16 is showing promising advancements, particularly in its handling of external displays.
The latest beta introduces noteworthy upgrades that bring it closer to the anticipated desktop experience. The tech giant has been diligently enhancing Android’s desktop mode for some time, and this effort is evident. Before experimenting with external display features in Android 16, Android 15 laid some groundwork with basic windowing capabilities. Now, Android 16 Beta 3 hints at even more sophisticated functionalities.
As discovered by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, new code strings reveal the potential for users to customize desktop mode operations. Unfortunately, the feature is not yet operational due to a technical glitch. If resolved prior to the final Android 16 release, improved support for external displays could greatly facilitate the use of phones with monitors, offering a genuine desktop-like experience. Currently, the external monitor capabilities in Android 15 are quite limited, especially on Google Pixel devices, where the cursor can only be utilized on one screen at a time.
There is also no straightforward means to toggle between mirroring and extending displays. While the current functionality is usable, it lacks the fluidity and versatility found in laptops and tablets. Rahman notes that “Desktop View” might just be a temporary name and that Google could change it before the official release.
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