Allow me to share my experiences after using the Galaxy Tab S7+ with Samsung DeX interface for over a week, replacing my everyday laptop. I chose to do so because Samsung brings forth a multi-window interface akin to computer operating systems, yet it runs on mobile platform chipsets, including ARM-based CPUs and the Android operating system.The DeX interface swiftly activates within the Galaxy S7+ feature set to become a Windows-like interface, utilizing the same keyboard and trackpad.
The main interface presents a user-friendly array of icons on the left, easily customizable. Below are the currently running applications. What sets it apart from traditional Android interfaces is the ability to open multiple app windows simultaneously. Additionally, users can resize apps and move windows across the desktop interface, similar to a computer experience.
A quick note on DeX: Previously, Samsung relied on HDMI cables to connect to external displays. Now, they've seamlessly integrated this feature within the Galaxy Tab S7+. With such a device, the touchscreen enhances usability, resembling touchscreen laptops or 2-in-1 models. Leveraging the Android platform allows users to access a wide range of existing apps, many of which automatically adjust to different screen sizes (Responsiveness).How to utilize Samsung DeX effectively?
The most demanding task I often undertake on mobile devices is image processing with Lightroom. Initially, swiping through images on the screen happens swiftly due to the app's optimization for tablets/smartphones. I experimented with macOS Big Sur for similar photo browsing, but the app wasn't optimized, so the Core i9 CPU had to work harder, resulting in overheating and unstable performance.
In terms of work efficiency, using the Galaxy Tab S7+ with the S Pen makes basic tasks simpler and quicker compared to computer systems with numerous customization features. Check out the detailed experience in the video for more insights. I tried adjusting brightness, changing colors, and spot removing dust for test photos.Clearly, after the experience, I see DeX excels on larger screens compared to current smartphones. And naturally, if it's a touch screen, it'll be the most optimized.
I enjoy using the S Pen for interface interactions. Samsung has adjusted the size to ensure it's not as small as a smartphone, making it easy to use the pen for navigating windows, customizing settings, and closing apps. Samsung's innovations in pen usage, like instant text translation with the S Pen, significantly speed up work tasks compared to computer apps.
For a traditional tablet interface, a single button press takes about 5 seconds to revert to a smartphone-like interface. Google's discontinuation of optimized Android tablet interfaces gives customized tablet OS a chance to showcase their strengths, offering an alternative to Apple's tablets.The future belongs to mobile platform-powered computers
Samsung's introduction of the DeX interface to the Galaxy Tab S series enriches the Android tablet experience, offering a desktop-like environment. However, stability is essential for long-term usability, as some apps fail to work in customized window sizes, only functioning in small fixed or full-screen modes, which can result in lost input.
The advantages of a mobile OS platform include lighter, thinner tablets and laptops with longer battery life without overheating, and hardware that rivals traditional PCs, all while offering a superior mobile usage experience.