Google is gearing up for the next iteration of its highly anticipated Pixel flagship smartphones, and there’s a constant stream of news surfacing about them intermittently.
According to recent reports, the forthcoming Google Pixel 8 series is rumored to introduce a novel feature that has not been present in previous Pixel models – the ability to output display content through the USB-C port. This functionality would allow users to connect their Pixel devices to external displays or monitors using a USB-C cable, expanding the possibilities for productivity and multimedia experiences.
As per the information reported by Android Authority, it has been revealed that both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will feature support for DisplayPort over USB-C. This is a notable addition as previous Pixel devices did not possess this capability. The inclusion of DisplayPort over USB-C in the Pixel 8 series opens up exciting possibilities for users, allowing them to connect their phones to external displays or monitors with greater ease and versatility.
Indeed, USB-C as a standard has possessed the capability for video output since its inception. However, the implementation of this feature has been at the discretion of individual device manufacturers. While several Android devices, including those manufactured by Samsung, have offered support for video output over USB-C, Google has opted not to include this functionality in its previous Pixel smartphones deliberately.
The decision to omit video output over USB-C in earlier Pixel devices may have been driven by various factors such as prioritizing other features, design considerations, or strategic product positioning. However, the reported inclusion of DisplayPort over USB-C in the upcoming Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro signifies a departure from this previous approach. It suggests that Google has recognized the demand for this feature among users and is now incorporating it to enhance the overall experience of its flagship smartphones.
With the inclusion of DisplayPort support in the Pixel 8 series, it does open up the possibility of additional functionality that can leverage this feature. One potential application could be the introduction of a desktop mode, similar to Samsung’s DeX, which Google has been exploring within the Android ecosystem.
A desktop mode would enable users to connect their Pixel 8 devices to an external display, transforming the phone into a desktop-like computing experience. This mode could offer a more robust multitasking environment, with resizable windows, keyboard and mouse support, and access to productivity applications. It would allow users to harness the power of their Pixel 8 smartphones for tasks that typically require a desktop or laptop computer.
Android 14 seems to add support for a new version of the USB Gadget HAL: v2.0 can report whether a connected USB-C cable supports DP Alt Mode.
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) February 9, 2023
May we finally get a Pixel with video output via USB-C? Wishful thinking on my part, but with all the recent desktop mode improvements..
It has been observed by Mishaal Rahman that Google has incorporated support for DisplayPort Alt Mode in Android 14. DisplayPort Alt Mode allows devices to utilize the USB-C port for video output, enabling them to connect to external displays or monitors directly. The inclusion of DisplayPort Alt Mode in Android 14 suggests that Google is actively working on expanding the capabilities of its Pixel 8 series.
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