It’s no secret that Android’s tablet interface is not exactly the best. With less options, it can get the job done. But if you’re trying to turn your tablet into a portable workstation, it’s just not great to navigate the interface and switch between apps.
For years, Samsung has implemented a feature in many of its phones and best tablets that helps combat these frustrations. Samsung DeX is basically a desktop-style interface powered by your phone or tablet. Specifically, with the Galaxy Tab S8, you can go from the traditional Android experience to one that would compete with some of the best Chromebooks.
How to use Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 series in DeX mode
There are several different ways to use and interact with Samsung DeX on the Galaxy Tab S8. For many, the “best” way is just to switch to DeX mode on the tablet itself. The traditional Android home screen interface will be removed and instead you will end up with something more like a Chromebook or Windows laptop.
1. Unlock your Galaxy Tab S8 Home screen.
2. Iron down twice in the status bar to display the Quick Settings panel.
3. Press DeX button.
Once enabled, it will take a moment for your tablet to switch to DeX mode. At this point, you can enjoy true multi-window app functionality along with setting specific icons to appear on the “desktop”. You can even go so far as to set another wallpaper that only appears when DeX mode is enabled.
How to activate DeX mode automatically
From time to time, you may find yourself just plugging in a cable or a keyboard to your Galaxy Tab S8 and getting DeX to boot automatically. Fortunately, Samsung made both of these options possible, but you’ll have to dive into the settings to get everything in proper condition.
1. Open Settings app on Galaxy Tab S8.
2. Scroll down and press Advanced features in the left sidebar.
3. Press Samsung DeX on the right side.
4. Activate Autostart when book cover keyboard is connected.
5. Activate Autostart when HDMI is connected.
6. Finish Settings app.
With these two options enabled, you will be able to get Samsung DeX to start automatically without having to activate it yourself. Of course, you do not need to have both of these enabled – if you only want DeX to boot when you connect an HDMI cable, you can do so. And the opposite is true. You can have DeX start automatically when the keyboard cover is mounted, but not when an HDMI cable is connected.
Go wireless with DeX
While Samsung DeX has been around for a few years at this point, a feature that is relatively new is the ability to use DeX wirelessly. With this feature, you can turn your Samsung TV or Miracast-compatible smart TV into a DeX monitor. Then you just want to use your Galaxy Tab S8’s screen as a touchpad and digital keyboard while being able to show that presentation or watch a movie on a larger screen.
1. Unlock your Galaxy Tab S8 Home screen.
2. Iron down twice in the status bar to display the Quick Settings panel.
3. Press DeX button.
With DeX enabled, open Settings app.
5. Press Samsung DeX in the left sidebar.
6. Press Connect wirelessly to the right.
7. When your compatible device is displayed, select it from the list.
8. When prompted on your TV or smart screen, select Allow.
There may be cases, especially with older TVs, where connecting an HDMI cable provides a more reliable experience. Whichever method you use, Samsung also brought the ability to use up to five app windows at the same time, making your Galaxy Tab S8 a multi-tasking powerhouse.
Supercharge your Galaxy Tab S8 experience
One of the biggest benefits of using Samsung DeX mode with even the massive Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is being able to go from leisure to work with a tap. Instead of relying on Android’s multiple windows support, your apps can be used in actual windows, just like your desktop computer. DeX truly transforms the Galaxy Tab S8 into a supercharged productivity powerhouse.
You may encounter some limitations, depending on whether app developers have included support for such modes. So you might want to use a particular app in DeX, only to be prompted to get a message that the app will not open. That’s probably a small warning for some, as the possibilities are really endless with the Samsung DeX and Galaxy Tab S8.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
The best Android tablet
If you’re looking for the best tablet that Android has to offer, look no further than the Galaxy Tab S8. Not only is the tablet experience amazing, but you can turn this into an incredible productivity workhorse with a single touch of a button.