Android 15 hides a desktop mode that can run directly on tablets

A potential desktop mode for Android 15 has been the subject of rumors for a while now. Currently, it’s unlikely to be ready for the first stable build, but new findings suggest that development is still moving forward. The feature would also support tablets without requiring an external display, like the latest Samsung’s DeX versions.

Hints about the desktop mode have been in the Android 15 developer preview code since its release. Also in Android 14 since the QPR 3 beta update. Therefore, everything suggested that the feature would be one of the main improvements of Android 15. However, given its current state of development, this may not be the case, although it could arrive in a future Feature Drop update.

Latest Android 15 beta brings a new “Desktop” button; it works on tablets

That said, as spotted by Android Authority, the latest Android 15 beta 4.1 hides a new “Desktop” button. The button is not available by default but must be forced to appear. Once enabled, it will be among the options above each app on the “Recents” screen. When you tap the button, the app in question will transform into a freeform, resizable window. You can move and adjust this window just like you would on a desktop OS.

What’s interesting is that you can use the desktop environment directly on a tablet. That is, the feature doesn’t require connecting an external display to enable it. This could be a big change for modern Android tablets that would gain more productivity possibilities. Google seems to be taking inspiration from Samsung’s DeX, whose recent versions also support tablets without requiring an external monitor.

According to the report, you’ll be able to switch between the different environments easily from the “Desktop” button on the recents screen. Google could be working on this desktop mode ahead of the launch of its Pixel Tablet 2. However, it’s not yet certain when the full, stable version of the feature will be available. Hopefully more news will emerge on this matter soon.