Samsung’s DeX tool, introduced a few years ago, provided users with a way to access their mobile apps on a computer. By transmitting the smartphone’s interface to a PC—with slight adjustments—DeX effectively allowed Samsung users to experience a version of Android with One UI on their desktops.
However, according to reports shared by Windows Central, Samsung appears to be phasing out this feature. The company is now reportedly recommending users switch to a Microsoft alternative. This decision has surprised many, as DeX was considered a standout feature for Samsung’s ecosystem, enabling greater integration between mobile and desktop experiences.
Samsung will abandon DeX and recommends using Windows Mobile Link
Samsung’s decision to discontinue DeX for Windows has taken many by surprise, especially given its utility on Galaxy devices. DeX allowed users to mirror their smartphone’s operating system onto a PC, providing convenient access to all mobile apps in a desktop-like interface.
According to a statement on Samsung’s UK website, DeX for Windows will no longer be available with the rollout of One UI 7. This means users updating to the latest version of the customization layer will lose access to the feature.
However, Samsung has offered an alternative to ensure users aren’t left without a solution. The company is recommending the Link to Windows app, which offers some similar functionality, though it’s not a direct replacement. With Link to Windows, users can synchronize notifications, messages, and more between their smartphone and PC. Additionally, the app allows Windows 11 users to run mobile applications directly on their computers, bridging some of the gap left by DeX’s removal.
While the transition may be disappointing for DeX enthusiasts, Link to Windows provides a streamlined integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, potentially appealing to a broader audience.
Samsung and Microsoft’s collaboration to enhance Link to Windows has provided users with a seamless integration experience, often granting Samsung devices early access to new features before they’re widely available. This partnership underscores Samsung’s commitment to offering alternative solutions as they phase out DeX for Windows with One UI 7, set to roll out in 2025.
Notably, the DeX tool has not been removed entirely. Users with devices running One UI 6.1 or earlier can still use DeX. The change only impacts those upgrading to One UI 7. While deciding to discontinue DeX for newer software versions is unfortunate, Samsung is trying to support affected users by actively recommending Link to Windows (or Mobile Link on Windows PCs).
Link to Windows is a versatile tool that enables users to control their mobile phones directly from their computers. Its features include viewing notifications, replying to messages, running native Android apps, and more. With Samsung and Microsoft continuously improving this tool, it’s becoming a powerful alternative to DeX, akin to a digital Swiss Army knife. While the shift may be disappointing for loyal DeX users, the ongoing enhancements to Link to Windows highlight Samsung’s dedication to maintaining a robust mobile-PC integration experience.
