Samsung's DeX mode on the Galaxy S26 Ultra has become powerful enough to replace a laptop for many users. With the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, the system can now run up to 20 apps simultaneously across four virtual desktops, each holding five applications. This multitasking capability, combined with a desktop-like interface on external monitors, creates a surprisingly capable computing experience.

Connecting the Galaxy S26 Ultra to a 4K monitor via USB-C delivers a smooth desktop environment with taskbar, multiple windows, and full app support. Chrome and other Google apps scale beautifully to larger screens, making the experience feel remarkably close to traditional desktop operating systems. The improved performance means you can edit photos, write documents, and handle email without the phone breaking a sweat.

What makes this particularly compelling is the ability to use your phone normally while DeX runs on the external display. You can still reply to messages, take calls, and check notifications on your phone while working on the monitor. Customizable settings let you adjust resolution, mouse tracking, and even use your phone as a touchpad. While some features like enhanced split-screen support would be welcome additions, the current implementation is already powerful enough for many productivity scenarios, from trade shows to college classrooms.