Since its 2017 debut, Samsung’s DeX has stood as a hallmark of innovation, allowing Galaxy users to transform their phones into desktop-like systems. Initially reliant on a special dock, DeX evolved with a dock-free design in 2019, followed by wireless DeX in 2020, which allowed seamless integration with Windows PCs via the DeX app.
However, Samsung is now sunsetting the DeX app for Windows as part of the upcoming One UI 7 update. A small but notable change, this shift was first spotted on Samsung’s UK DeX page by Windows Central, which includes the note: “The DeX for PC on Windows OS will end support from One UI 7 version. We encourage customers to connect mobile phone and PC through the Link to Windows feature.” The absence of a similar note on the US DeX page leaves open the possibility of regional differences, though updates may simply be pending.
Despite this development, Samsung DeX isn’t disappearing. Users will still be able to connect their phones to external displays for a desktop-like experience. What’s ending is the ability to launch DeX on a Windows PC, with Samsung recommending users switch to Microsoft’s Phone Link app instead. Phone Link offers robust integration features, including syncing notifications, managing messages, and even running mobile apps on a Windows 11 desktop.
The change is expected to coincide with the One UI 7 rollout, which is rumored to enter beta testing in December 2024, with a wider release starting in early 2025. This move reflects Samsung’s growing partnership with Microsoft, prioritizing streamlined experiences via established platforms while continuing to innovate on standalone DeX features. For users who relied on the DeX app for PC, the transition to Phone Link ensures most of the core functionalities remain accessible in a new form.