Google Explains Why Android 16’s Desktop Mode Works on Tablets but Not on Foldables

Google has confirmed that the new desktop mode in Android 16 does not work on foldables, despite the fact it works on tablets. That doesn’t really make all that much sense, does it?

This new desktop mode, that will become available later this year, will make it possible for a phone to connect to a monitor and offer a desktop-like UI with resizable apps and more. Needless to say, that could be a very interesting and useful feature.

Google’s new desktop mode in Android 16 can run on tablets, but not on foldables

While all devices will be able to offer such a mode on a monitor, when you connect them, Android tablets will be able to run this mode on their own displays too. Foldables will not, however.

Google confirmed as much to ArsTechnica. Google tried to explain that foldables are being treated like phones, not like tablets. So, considering that phones cannot show this desktop mode, neither will foldables. Considering the large display on the inside of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, for example, it would be nice to have the ability.

This is not all that surprising, as Samsung did something similar to DeX. Google also added that “it will be up to OEMs to support this feature”. So, just because a device runs Android 16, does not mean this feature will be supported. Google’s will, though.

This decision is understandable… kind of

While Google’s decision not to offer the same functionality on foldables (as on tablets) is kind of understandable, it’s still disappointing at the same time. Tablets do have more screen real estate, and they have a different (wider) aspect ratio.

It’s also worth noting that the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2, the one that recently arrived, does include this desktop mode. If you’re willing to install beta software and check it out, go ahead. Android 16 stable already dropped, a couple of days ago, but it does not include the Material 3 Expressive overhaul nor this new desktop mode. Both will arrive later this year.

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