Leaked Code Hints at Possible Desktop Mode for Android

Google is preparing to launch a desktop mode for Android. According to leaked source codes reported by Mishaal Rahman, the feature will offer a large screen interface just like Samsung DeX and Motorola’s Smart Connect.  While early signs of this feature were spotted as far back as 2023, this new leak indicates the project is closer to release than ever before.

A desktop -like experience for Android phones 

This feature, called Android Desktop Mode, is a productivity tool and will allow Android users to use larger screens more conveniently. If this feature is active, the phone interface will be the regular desktop layout. It will have completely resizable windows, a taskbar-like bar and app shortcuts. The setup will offer more flexibility than the regular Android screen. It will be similar to how Windows or Chrome OS handles apps.

How it works: external display required 

To use desktop mode, users will need to connect their phone to an external display, most likely through a USB-C cable. However, the report doesn’t rule out wireless connections in the future. Samsung and Motorola already support wireless modes, so it wouldn’t be surprising if Google adds that feature later.

Expected launch with Android 17, likely on pixel phone first 

Although the leaked code gives us a good look at the current state of development, the feature is still not fully polished. It’s unlikely to launch with Android 16,which is expected later this year. Instead, sources suggest desktop mode will arrive with Android 17, likely debuting first on Pixel phones. That approach would follow Google’s usual pattern of introducing new features on its in-house devices before expanding to other brands.