Google is enhancing its tablet experience with Android 15 QPR 1 Beta 2, introducing a powerful new feature: desktop windowing. This feature, currently available as a developer option, brings a desktop-like experience to the Pixel Tablet, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously, resize app windows, and interact with the device in ways traditionally associated with desktop computers.

While still in the testing phase, desktop windowing is expected to roll out more broadly with future Android releases, positioning Android tablets as serious multitasking devices for both work and entertainment.

Google, What is Desktop Windowing?

Desktop windowing allows Android tablets to support multiple apps running in resizable windows, similar to a desktop computer’s functionality. Users can open, move, and resize windows with ease, providing a more flexible and powerful interface for multitasking.

By enabling this feature, the Pixel Tablet transforms into a versatile workspace. Apps open in full-screen mode by default, but you can easily switch them to windowed mode, letting you interact with several apps at once. For example, you can browse the web, take notes, and chat simultaneously, making it ideal for productivity.

How to Enable Desktop Windowing on Pixel Tablet

To try desktop windowing on your Pixel Tablet running Android 15 QPR 1 Beta 2, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Scroll to Developer Options (ensure Developer Mode is enabled).
3. Select Enable Freeform Windows.

Once enabled, you can start using desktop windowing by pressing and holding the window handle in the status bar and dragging the app to a different location. From there, you can open multiple windows and arrange them as needed.

Alternatively, you can use keyboard shortcuts for quick actions:

• Windows/Command/Search + Ctrl + Down to activate desktop windowing.
• Windows/Command/Search + H to return apps to full screen.

Taskbar and Window Controls

The taskbar, fixed at the bottom of the screen, plays a central role in the desktop windowing experience. It shows running apps, giving users quick access to switch between open windows. Users can also pin their favorite apps for easy access. A new header bar at the top of each window includes controls to minimize, maximize, or close the window.

This user interface mirrors traditional desktop environments like Samsung Dex, but it’s now deeply integrated within Android, marking a significant improvement in Android tablet multitasking.

Developer Considerations

Google is advising developers to prepare their apps for this new user experience by adopting adaptive layouts. Apps should be able to resize seamlessly and support multitasking features such as drag-and-drop for sharing content between apps. Developers should also consider enabling their apps to support multiple instances—especially important for productivity tools and browsers.

With desktop windowing becoming more prevalent in the Android ecosystem, developers need to ensure their apps offer a smooth experience across various window sizes and multitasking environments. Google’s blog post recommends best practices for developers to enhance compatibility with this feature.

A Preview of Android’s Future

Although desktop windowing is currently limited to the Pixel Tablet through a developer setting, it’s expected to expand across more devices with future updates, likely becoming a standard feature in Android 16. By making tablets more productive, Google aims to compete with existing solutions like iPadOS and Samsung Dex. This move signals Android’s push to offer a full-fledged, flexible workspace for users who want more out of their tablets.

Why This Matters for Android Tablet Users

For those who rely on their tablets for work, desktop windowing brings a significant shift in how Android tablets are used. It transforms the Pixel Tablet into a desktop-like environment, making it easier to handle tasks that require multiple apps at once, such as document editing, browsing, or content creation.

As this feature matures, it will likely become one of the biggest selling points for Android tablets, positioning them as viable alternatives to laptops for many users. Whether you’re a developer preparing apps for this new interface or an Android enthusiast, desktop windowing is an exciting step forward for Android tablets.