Samsung DeX is a feature included on some high-end Samsung handheld devices that enables users to extend their device into a desktop-like experience by connecting a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The name "DeX" is a contraction of "Desktop eXperience". Samsung first included the DeX feature on Samsung's Galaxy S8 and S8+ smartphones, and has continued to support the feature on all of its latest flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S9, S10, S20, Note8, Note9 and Note10 series throughout Android Pie. The Galaxy A90 5G is the first Galaxy A phone with DeX support. It has also been introduced on several high-end tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S4, S5e and Tab S6.
History
The original version of DeX required the use of a docking accessory called the DeX Station. This provided a USB-C port, ethernet, HDMI 2.0 output and two USB 2.0 ports. With the launch of the Note 9 in August 2018, Samsung introduced the DeX HDMI adapter, cable and multiport adapter, eliminating the need for the previous docking accessories. Whilst connected to a display, the device itself can function as a touchpad or continue being used in its usual fashion whilst DeX is operating. With the Note 10 and Galaxy Fold, DeX can now be launched via a direct cable connection to a physical computer using the existing charging cable, eliminating the need for any docking accessories. DeX has also been used in the public safety setting to replace in-vehicle laptops. Samsung also announced "Linux on Galaxy" which allows use of a compatible Linux distribution rather than the default Android OSgiving full personal computer capabilities. The DeX Desktop can also be accessed with a downloadable app for Windows and Mac OS or through third party accessories like the Melopow Dock. Users are able to connect to their mobile devices with a USB Cable. Samsung DeX devices can be managed by Samsung Knox to allow or restrict access using the Knox platform for added control and security. In October 2019 Samsung announced that Linux on DeX will not be available for Android 10 and warned users that after upgrade to Android 10 they will not be able to downgrade back, permanently losing the ability to use full Linux applications.
