Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro owners can now mirror their phone’s display or potentially run a desktop-like environment when connected to an external display. The functionality was highlighted by Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority who notes that it was enabled by default with the new Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 update.
Previously, Google’s Pixel phones lacked the ability to output to external displays as the hardware disabled DisplayPort Alternate Mode. This mode allows devices to transmit video signals over the USB-C port, enabling display output without a dedicated video port.
However, Google has now enabled DisplayPort Alternate Mode at the hardware level on the Pixel 8 series. And with the recent Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 release, this capability is also enabled in the software, allowing users to “mirror display” when connecting their Pixel 8 or 8 Pro to an external screen via USB-C or HDMI adapter.
While mirroring the phone display is currently the default, users can enable a basic “desktop mode” by turning on the “force desktop mode” setting in developer options. However, Android’s revamped and more robust desktop mode experience is still under development and not yet available to users.
Google may officially launch the improved desktop mode with Android 15 on the upcoming Pixel 9 series later this year. But it’s uncertain if the display output functionality will stick around on the Pixel 8 models or if it was unintentionally enabled in the beta release. For instance, Google recently enabled the “Battery information” page on Pixel phones with Android 14 updates but have now removed it. They claim the feature was meant for the Pixel 8a and newer models.
Despite the uncertain future, this represents a significant step for Google in bringing desktop-like experiences to its Pixel phones, potentially allowing users to transform their mobile devices into portable workstations when needed. As someone who used DeX mode a lot on the Galaxy S9, I can’t wait to see Google’s implementation of the desktop experience.
(Source)
Dwayne Cubbins
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My fascination with Android phones began the moment I got my hands on one. Since then, I've been on a journey to decode the ever-evolving tech landscape, fueled by a passion for both the "how" and the "why." Since 2018, I've been crafting content that empowers users and demystifies the tech world. From in-depth how-to guides that unlock your phone's potential to breaking news based on original research, I strive to make tech accessible and engaging.
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