Android 15's QPR1 beta hints at a revamped desktop mode with enhanced windowing capabilities. Though not fully functional yet, the new developer option suggests Google is actively developing this feature. Could this be the beginning of a full-fledged Android desktop experience?

Android 15 is just around the corner, but some of its anticipated features are not quite ready for prime time. One such feature is the enhanced desktop mode that Google has been working on, which offers improved windowing capabilities. While absent from the final Android 15 beta and the upcoming stable release, it might appear in a future quarterly platform release, as hinted at by the first QPR1 beta.

New Developer Option in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1

Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 introduces a new toggle in Settings > System > Developer options called “Enable desktop mode on secondary display.” This replaces the old “Force desktop mode” toggle. Enabling it prompts a device reboot.

Current Limitations

Post-reboot, creating a secondary display and launching apps onto it doesn’t showcase the new windowing options seen in April. The same old buttons (back, minimize, maximize, close) are present, but features like the handle for switching modes, title bar, window snapping support, etc., are missing.

Further Development Needed

It appears that additional configuration flags need to be set before the revamped desktop mode functions on secondary displays. These flags are currently disabled in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1, suggesting Google is keeping this feature under wraps until it’s more polished.

Potential for Tablet Integration

When the revamped desktop mode is finally launched, it might also run directly on tablets. The main missing piece is a proper launcher, but Google could adopt a “New Samsung DeX” approach by creating a dedicated space for launching apps in freeform windows. Many are hopeful for a full-fledged Android desktop mode experience, but current progress indicates it might still be some time away.

Android 15’s revamped desktop mode is clearly a work in progress, but the latest QPR1 beta offers a glimpse of what’s to come. While the feature isn’t fully functional yet, it’s encouraging to see Google continuing to develop it. With potential for tablet integration and enhanced window management, the revamped desktop mode could significantly improve the Android experience on larger screens. It remains to be seen when this feature will officially launch, but it’s definitely one to keep an eye on.

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Sovan Mandal

Sovan, with a Journalism degree from the University of Calcutta and 10 years of experience, ensures high-quality tech content. His editorial precision has contributed to the publication's acclaimed standards and consistent media mentions for quality reporting. Sovan’s dedication and attention to detail have greatly contributed to the consistency and excellence of our content, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the best to our readers.