How to set up Samsung DeX on your Galaxy smartphone or tablet
As smartphones become more advanced, carrying a laptop for your daily needs is unnecessary. These pocket-sized supercomputers can handle most of our day-to-day tasks in a few clicks, fromordering at a restaurantto promoting a business on social media. However, smartphone screens aren’t the best for complex tasks. Having a desktop screen is more feasible for viewing.
Samsung’s best phonesas well as its tablets ship with DeX, a service that taps into the power of your smartphone or tablet and transforms it into a desktop computer. And while DeX isn’t a laptop replacement, it’s great in a pinch. If you’ve never used the platform, this guide will get you up to speed.
What is Samsung DeX?
Samsung DeXturns your Samsung device into a desktop computer by connecting it to an external monitor and peripherals. The software comes preinstalled on theSamsung Galaxy S24as well as many phones, tablets, and even TVs. Check out Samsung’sDeX supported device listfor a full rundown.
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DeX requires a USB-C to HDMI connector and potentially an external keyboard and mouse to function fully. In some cases, you may not need an adapter, as you can wirelessly cast your screen toa compatible TV. If you have a Windows PC, you can use a USB cable to open DeX as an app on your computer. This last step defeats the purpose of using your phone as a computer. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require much IT knowledge.
How to use Samsung DeX with an HDMI monitor
The easiest way to turn your Galaxy device into a computer is to plug it into an HDMI monitor using a USB-C to HDMI cable. Here’s how that’s done:
How to use DeX wirelessly with a compatible TV
If you have a compatible TV, you don’t need to plug in an HDMI cable to use DeX. Wireless DeX works on 2018+ Samsung TVs and smart TVs that support Miracast. This feature requires One UI 3.1+, which you’ll find on the newer Samsung devices mentioned above. If your monitor and phone are compatible, here’s how to connect them:
Use DeX mode with a cable when possible. Wireless DeX can be hit or miss. Latency can become a pain point.
How to use DeX on your tablet
you may also use DeX if you have a Samsung tablet. This allows you to multitask in a desktop-like environment without using an external monitor. Here’s how to access it:
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How to connect accessories
Whether you use a cable or wireless connection, using your phone’s display as a touchpad isn’t always a convenient option. There are different ways to connect a keyboard and mouse to your phone, so using it as an actual computer is more convenient.
You can use aUSB-C hub, a DeX Pad, or a DeX station for wired devices. For wireless devices, connect them using Bluetooth.
How to use DeX for PC
You can use DeX as anapp on your computer. This is useful when you want to run your phone’s apps on your computer’s screen and transfer documents between your PC and phone. Here’s how it works:
Your laptop now fits in your pocket
While small-screen devices will never replace laptops, it’s possible to turn your Samsung phone or tablet into one. You won’t have to carry multiple devices when you install DeX on your phone. You can use Samsung DeX to connect to a nearby monitor or TV. Samsung offers other useful software such asOne UI 5. Learn more about it and help your daily life flow smoothly.
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