Samsung's DeX dock has a secret feature for Windows Mobile users

With the launch of the Galaxy S8 this Spring, Samsung poached one of Windows 10 Mobile’s unique features–Continuum. The Galaxy S8 shipped with an additional, optional accessory known as a DeX Dock which provided a Linux like desktop operating system complete with support for android apps and advanced desktop multitasking features like multi-window support, drag and drop and an actual desktop.

Like Continuum for phones, all this magic was powered by the phone, with no actual conventional PC needed for this.

It turns out that the DeX Dock works for more than the Galaxy S8, with the Windows 10 powered Lumia 950 being able to make use of this dock to launch itself into Continuum. In a YouTube video (via Gizmodo), a tech enthusiast showed his new Samsung DeX Dock working with the older Lumia.

It’s quite likely that both devices make use of similar technology to access the pseudo-desktop environment. With that in mind, it’s not at all shocking that there is some cross pollination. It’s also well known that Microsoft and Samsung have been partners in the mobile space for a while now, with Samsung being one of Microsoft’s earliest Windows Mobile OEMs and Microsoft helping optimise its Office apps for DeX.

Endeavours like this aren’t new in the mobile space, nor will they be the last. Motorola had a desktop dock back in its heydey, and Jide is still trying to make RemixOS happen (it’s not going to).

Much like with bleach and ammonia, it seems like the general public prefers to keep their desktops and mobile devices separate despite tech pundits and companies attempting to convince them its the best thing since sliced bread. It’s possible that with the S8 more manufacturers will include Dex like features into their smartphones, it’s also possible that consumers will continue to ignore them as they have done for years now. C’est la vie.