Samsung DeX has evolved significantly with the release of One UI 8, bringing a redesigned user interface powered by Android 16’s native Desktop Mode. While the update aligns with Google’s new direction for desktop-style Android usage, it has also introduced changes that some users find frustrating—especially when it comes to accessing true fullscreen mode.
If you’re in India and using Samsung DeX on One UI 8, you might have noticed that fullscreen mode is not as easy to activate as it was before. Here’s everything you need to know about Immersive Mode, why it’s hidden, and how to enable it.
Summary Table: One UI 8 DeX Fullscreen Mode Guide for Indian Users
| Feature/Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | Samsung DeX on One UI 8 |
| Android Base | Android 16 Desktop Mode |
| Issue | True fullscreen (Immersive) mode is not easily accessible |
| Feature Name | Immersive Mode |
| Ideal For | Video streaming, gaming, distraction-free multitasking |
| How to Enable | Via hidden options in window controls |
| Update Expected | One UI 8.5 with Galaxy S26 (Early 2026 in India) |
| Official Site | www.samsung.com/in |
What Is Samsung DeX and What Changed in One UI 8?
Samsung DeX allows users to transform their Galaxy smartphone or tablet into a PC-like experience when connected to an external monitor or TV. It’s a powerful tool, especially popular in India among professionals, developers, students, and gamers who prefer a portable productivity setup.
With the arrival of One UI 8, Samsung integrated DeX with Android 16’s native Desktop Mode, resulting in a smoother interface and better app compatibility. However, some long-time DeX users were surprised to find that true fullscreen mode seemed to be missing—until now.
The Problem: No Obvious Fullscreen Mode
Normally, when users maximize apps in DeX (like YouTube, Netflix, or games), they expect a true fullscreen experience—without any header bars or app docks. However, on One UI 8:
- Clicking the Maximize button enlarges the app window but leaves behind the title bar and dock.
- This is disruptive for full-screen content, whether you’re gaming or watching movies.
Fortunately, Samsung has hidden a fully immersive fullscreen mode, but it takes a few more steps to access.
How to Enable Immersive Mode in Samsung DeX (One UI 8)
Here is the step-by-step guide for Indian users:
- Connect your Samsung device (like Galaxy S23 Ultra or Tab S9) to a monitor or TV using DeX.
- Launch any app you want to view in fullscreen (e.g., YouTube, VLC Media Player, Chrome).
- Click the Maximize button (top-right corner of the app window).
- Now hold the left-click on that same Maximize button.
- A small menu will appear with three options:
- Immersive
- Restore
- Resize
- Select “Immersive” to enter true fullscreen mode.
- This removes the app’s title bar and the DeX dock for a cleaner interface.
This Immersive mode brings back the full, distraction-free environment users enjoyed in older DeX versions.
Why Is Immersive Mode Hidden?
As reported by global users on Reddit and YouTube (and covered by Android Authority), Samsung may have buried this feature unintentionally or as part of a minimalist redesign. However, its lack of visibility has caused confusion, especially among Indian tech enthusiasts who use DeX as a daily work or entertainment setup.
Samsung is expected to address this in One UI 8.5, likely launching with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026. The update may make the Immersive mode more accessible by placing it directly in the window control menu.
When Will One UI 8.5 Arrive in India?
- Expected Release: Q1 2026
- Devices: Galaxy S26, Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Tab S10 and higher
- Regions: Global rollout, including India (with minor delays based on region)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the fullscreen mode removed in One UI 8 DeX?
Ans. No, fullscreen mode still exists under the name Immersive Mode, but it is not directly visible. You need to hold-click the Maximize button to access it.
Q2. Why can’t I get rid of the dock in DeX?
Ans. By default, the DeX dock and header bar remain when you maximize an app. To hide them, use Immersive Mode by holding the Maximize icon and selecting the appropriate option.
Q3. Will Samsung fix this issue in future updates?
Ans. Yes, Samsung is expected to make Immersive Mode more discoverable in One UI 8.5, expected with the Galaxy S26 in early 2026.
Q4. Can I enable fullscreen mode using a keyboard shortcut?
Ans. Currently, there is no known keyboard shortcut for Immersive Mode. It can only be accessed via mouse interaction with the Maximize button.
Q5. Is this feature available on older Samsung phones?
Ans. Immersive Mode in One UI 8 DeX is only available on newer models supporting Android 16-based One UI 8, such as Galaxy S23 series and newer.
Q6. Can I use Immersive Mode on a TV screen?
Ans. Yes, Immersive Mode works whether you’re connected via HDMI, USB-C to HDMI, or wireless DeX, including TV output.
Official Samsung India Website
To stay updated on Samsung One UI updates and DeX support, visit:
https://www.samsung.com/in
For More Information Click HERE
