Multitask with Samsung DeX and your Galaxy tablet

Do you want to use DeX mode but don’t have an extra monitor lying around? That won’t be a problem if you have a Galaxy tablet. Newer tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S10, have DeX built right into them. This means you can use DeX without connecting the tablet to a monitor or TV! Just open up DeX mode on your tablet to start multitasking.
Multitasking with DeX on Tab S8 Ultra
Multitasking with DeX on Tab S8 Ultra

Multitask with Samsung DeX and your Galaxy tablet

Use DeX mode on your tablet

The Tab S4, S6, S7, S8, S9, and A9+ have DeX built right into them. In other words, you can multitask with DeX without connecting the tablet to a monitor! Check out our website if you’re looking for the latest compatible Galaxy tablets.

  1. Just swipe down from the top of the screen using two fingers to open the Quick settings panel. Then, tap the Samsung DeX icon.
    Samsung DeX icon highlighted in the Quick Settings panel on a Galaxy tablet
  2. If it's your first time using this feature, follow the instructions. The DeX interface will load on the tablet the same way it appears on desktops and monitors. You can navigate it using the touch screen, S Pen, a USB or Bluetooth mouse and keyboard, or a Keyboard cover.
  3. You can also switch between Classic DeX and New DeX by navigating to and opening Settings, then tapping Connected devices, and then tapping Samsung DeX. Tap Classic to use Classic Mode.
  4. To exit DeX, select the Apps icon in the bottom left corner of the DeX screen, and then select Exit DeX.

Using the S Pen

If you have a Tab S7, S8, or S9, DeX mode will have an extra perk: you can use S Pen features! That’s right, DeX mode will come with the Air command menu. Just hover your S Pen over the Air command icon and tap it to open up the menu. All of your usual shortcuts will be there.

You can also use the S Pen to write down ideas in Samsung Notes, color in the PENUP app, and do a myriad of other things that are easier with a pen.

If you need a new S Pen for your tablet, you can find a compatible pen specific to your model on our website.

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Use the S Pen with DeX

A list of icons for the Air command menu on a Galaxy tablet

If you have a Tab S7, S8, or S9, DeX mode will have an extra perk: you can use S Pen features! That’s right, DeX mode will come with the Air command menu. Just hover your S Pen over the Air command icon and tap it to open up the menu. All of your usual shortcuts will be there.

You can also use the S Pen to write down ideas in Samsung Notes, color in the PENUP app, and do a myriad of other things that are easier with a pen.

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Adjust DeX Settings

Samsung DeX settings on a Galaxy tablet

Maybe you’re having some trouble reading the text in DeX mode. Just use the Samsung DeX settings to change any settings related to DeX mode.

Tap Apps, open Settings, and then tap Samsung DeX. From here, you can customize your wallpaper, change display settings, access keyboard settings, try new features with Samsung DeX Labs, hide the task bar, and much more.

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Connect the tablet wirelessly to a TV

Connect wirelessly searching for a device on a Galaxy tablet

Although DeX mode on tablets doesn’t require cables, you can still connect it to a bigger display if you’d like.

Tap Apps, and then open Settings. Tap Samsung DeX, and then tap Connect wirelessly. Select your TV from the list, and then tap Start now. Your TV will prompt you to select Allow before connecting. Then, tap Start on your tablet to allow the necessary permissions. You can now use DeX mode on your TV. Whatever you do on the tablet will be mirrored to the TV's screen.

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