I finally tried the Pixel’s new desktop mode, and it’s the coolest hidden feature you’re not using

Google’s March Pixel drop included a bunch of new features for its smartphones. One feature that wasn’t mentioned is a new Pixel Desktop mode when you connect your phone to an external display.

However, the idea of connecting a smartphone to a screen to instantly transform the interface into a desktop-like experience is nothing new. Samsung phones and tablets have had DeX for years. Motorola phones offer Smart Connect, which turns even its low-end phones into a desktop experience.

It’s surprisingly basic, but in a good way

Pixel Desktop mode

(Image credit: Future/Jason Cipriani)

The first time I connected my Pixel 10 Pro XL to the same Thunderbolt dock I normally use with my MacBook Pro, I was prompted to connect to an external display. I checked the box next to “Don’t ask me again” and hit the desktop button. A few seconds later, my display flashed and I was greeted with a bland desktop that lacked any image, app icons, or shortcuts. My keyboard connected instantly and worked without issue, although I had to pair my mouse with the Pixel.

At the bottom of the screen is the taskbar, which uses the same apps I have placed there on my Pixel. On the right are three navigation buttons that used to be the default way to navigate on Android before it became gesture-only. That’s it. It reminds me a lot of the early days of ChromeOS or using an early Android beta on a tablet.

Pixel Desktop mode

(Image credit: Future/Jason Cipriani)

Then I started clicking on app icons, and instead of seeing miniaturized phone-like apps fill the screen, I was surprised to see what looked like full-fledged desktop apps open. Chrome is probably the best example, as it looks like the browser on a desktop, complete with a row of tabs along the top of the window; the same tabs I had almost forgotten I had open on my Pixel.

In reality, all the apps I’ve been using for the past few days are nothing more than enhanced tablet apps. Only instead of being locked into certain window sizes or even a column that looks like the size of a phone app, I have complete freedom to resize each window to whatever shape or format I want. You can have up to five apps open at a time on the external display, plus another running on your Pixel phone – for a total of six apps.

When you open a new app on the desktop and you are at the limit, the app that has been inactive the longest will be closed.

Everything you need to use Pixel’s desktop mode

Pixel Desktop mode

(Image credit: Future/Jason Cipriani)

To use the new desktop mode, you will need some additional hardware. Of course, you’ll need a compatible Pixel phone, which means Pixel 8 or newer, including foldables. Additionally, you need some kind of display, be it a hotel room TV, a USB-C portable display, or a computer monitor. A keyboard and mouse are also required, as is a way to connect them all to your phone.

If you have a Bluetooth keyboard and a Bluetooth mouse, you can pair them with your phone just like you would any other Bluetooth device.

Connecting your phone to a display is done via its USB-C port. If you have a monitor with a USB-C connection, then you’re good to go. But if you only have an HDMI cable for your monitor, you’ll need a cheap USB-C hub. The USB-C hub also allows you to connect a wired keyboard and mouse, power to your phone and, if you’re so inclined, an Ethernet connection.

Don’t leave your laptop at home just yet

The Pixel’s Desktop feature isn’t perfect, though. For example, it’s annoying that I can’t lock my Pixel while using Desktop mode — the screen has to stay on, which in turn produces heat and potentially drains the battery faster.

That said, I’ve spent a lot of time using the new desktop mode to answer emails in my inbox, reply to texts, stream music (albeit through the phone’s speaker), and even watch some YouTube Shorts.

And my favorite part? At the end of every work session, I pull out my phone and everything I was just doing on a 32-inch screen in front of me is now in the palm of my hand. I don’t have to manage multiple devices, wonder where I put a file, or wait for things to sync.

One day, a mobile phone that converts into a full-fledged desktop experience or laptop replacement will be the norm – but until then, I’ll keep experimenting and have the confidence to know that my phone can pinch into a laptop when needed.