Evaluating the Updated DeX Mode: Improvement or Complication?
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While DeX Mode is not a new concept, its latest update introduces a revamped user interface and new functionalities. I typically discuss DeX Mode in my reviews of the Galaxy Tab S series. However, the modifications in the latest update are significant enough to merit a special mention.
Significant Updates to DeX
The latest DeX Mode integrates various elements from Samsung’s One UI 8 and offers a new look resembling Android Desktop Mode. Enhancements include support for up to four virtual desktops, a dedicated full-screen button, a revamped settings menu, improved window management, and more.
A significant and somewhat divisive change is the removal of the traditional Windows-like taskbar on the tablet version of DeX Mode. This taskbar now only appears when the device is connected to an external display, with only a modified version visible on the tablet itself.
The features such as virtual desktops are still accessible on the tablet alone. Yet, to experience a more familiar DeX Mode, an external display is necessary.
Experiencing the New DeX
To fully assess DeX Mode, I connected a Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra to a monitor in our office. This setup reinstated the traditional DeX Mode taskbar on the monitor, but not on the tablet. Adapting to this change was manageable, but soon another issue arose.
The new Book Cover Keyboard for the Tab S11 Ultra is significantly more robust than its predecessors, making it safer to walk around with the tablet propped up. The keyboard is also comfortable for typing.
However, the Book Cover Keyboard lacks a touchpad. Using the tablet’s touch controls for app selection and window resizing or moving apps between the tablet and monitor is challenging without a mouse. Consequently, I found myself needing a wireless mouse to efficiently handle tasks.
In essence, for real productivity on the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, you must not only connect it to an external monitor but also use a wireless mouse. This setup hardly mimics a typical laptop experience.
Considering the hassle, it might be more practical to opt for the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 5, currently priced at $1,149, which is less than the combined cost of the entry-level Tab S11 Ultra, the $200 Book Cover Keyboard, and an external monitor.
Advantages of the Updated DeX Mode
Despite my criticisms, it’s worth acknowledging that the new DeX Mode has its merits.
The latest iteration is the quickest and most responsive yet. The transition between DeX Mode and the standard Android interface is now instantaneous, a significant improvement over the previous versions. Switching between virtual desktops is smooth, and setting up each desktop with specific applications is straightforward. Even if limited to four virtual desktops when connected to an external display, I find this to be sufficient for my needs.
Final Thoughts
Currently, I’m not overly concerned with the changes to DeX Mode, primarily because I don’t rely on a Samsung tablet for my daily tasks. Nevertheless, if I were dependent on DeX Mode for professional purposes, I might find the new setup frustrating.
While the support for virtual desktops is excellent, DeX Mode feels limited without external devices. If you’re contemplating using it as your main work setup, you might be better off investing in a traditional laptop.
I plan to explore more about DeX Mode before my Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra review is finalized, so stay tuned for more insights!
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Tobias Nguyen covers mobile technology and social media trends. He combines a background in digital marketing with a passion for emerging tech to provide readers with data-driven insights and practical tech usage tips.
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