- It is possible to use an Android phone as a computer by connecting it to a display and peripherals.
- There are native desktop modes such as Samsung DeX, Ready For, and Huawei's.
- You can also use your phone as a mouse and keyboard for another device using specific apps.
- Even old cell phones can be used as a mini PC by following a few simple steps.
The idea of use your mobile phone as a computer It may sound like science fiction, but it's actually completely possible, practical, and easier than you might imagine. With current advances in hardware and software, many smartphones are powerful enough to replace, at least temporarily or temporarily, a desktop computer. Whether you need to work from another location without your laptop, because your computer has failed, or you simply want to get the most out of your smartphone, this option can get you out of more than one tight spot.
The best part is that you don't need to be a tech expert or invest a lot of money. There are various methods to achieve this, both for Android phones and, to a lesser extent, for iPhones. From desktop modes built into certain manufacturers to software solutions and physical adapters that allow you to send the phone's image to an external display. Below, we'll break down the different ways to turn your phone into a true work or entertainment center, using all the technical and practical information available.
What do I need to use my phone as a computer?
Before using your phone as a computer, it's essential to know what components you need. Depending on the method you choose, you may need some or all of the following items:
- An Android phone with Android 10 or higher, as these versions allow you to activate hidden desktop modes or incorporate support for technologies such as DisplayPort.
- USB-C to HDMI adapter, which allows you to send the image from your phone to a monitor or television. There are affordable models available at stores like Amazon, starting at around 20 euros.
- Bluetooth or wired mouse and keyboardMost Android phones support external connections of this type and recognize them as standard peripherals.
- An application or desktop modeSome phones come with their own native mode, while others require third-party apps or launchers that simulate a desktop interface.
Native desktop modes: Samsung DeX, Ready For, and Huawei Desktop
Samsung DeX
Samsung DeX is one of the most popular solutions to turn a phone into a computer. It's available from the Galaxy S8 onwards, including models like the Note, S, Z Fold, and some Galaxy A models. It supports external displays via USB-C and also works wirelessly with some Smart TVs.
Once connected, the phone launches a customized interface adapted for use with a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, very similar to Windows. DeX lets you use apps in windows, drag and drop, work with multiple apps at once, and type with a physical keyboard.You can access your phone's content, such as files, photos, or documents, open Excel or Word, or even browse as if you were on a PC.
To activate it, simply connect your phone to the DeX dock (if you have an older model) or directly to the display (if you have a newer model) and press the connect button. You can also use DeX on a Windows PC to control your phone from there.
Motorola Ready For
Ready For is Motorola's alternative to DeX, and is present in several mid-range and high-end models such as the Motorola Edge or the ThinkPhone. The idea is the same: connect the phone to an external display via cable or wirelessly to activate a desktop environment.
As with Samsung, you can work in an optimized environment, ideal for productivity, video conferencing, or multimedia consumption. In addition, Ready For also has a special function that allows you to use your phone as an external webcam if you connect it to a PC. A very useful option for virtual meetings.
Huawei Desktop Mode
Huawei devices such as the Mate or the high-end P also have integrated desktop modeWhen you connect your phone to a compatible display (via cable or Miracast), it transforms into a fully functional desktop interface where you can use apps, open documents, or work with the phone as if it were a PC.
Plus, native keyboard and mouse support means you don't need anything else except the peripherals themselves. The phone can even be used as a touchpad if you don't have a mouse.
Turn any Android into a desktop without native mode
If you don't have a Samsung, Motorola or Huawei mobile phone with desktop mode pre-installed, you still have options. Android 10 and higher allow you to force experimental desktop mode. via the developer options menu. This is a somewhat more technical process, but feasible for any user with basic knowledge.
Enable experimental desktop mode
- Go to Settings > About phone.
- Tap “Build Number” several times until you activate developer mode.
- Next, go to Settings > System > Developer Options.
- Find and enable “Force Desktop Mode.”
Once this is done, you'll need to install a special launcher, such as Lawnchair or Computer Launcher, which simulates a PC interface with windows and a taskbar. These launchers allow you to organize apps as if you were in Windows, with support for multiple windows and a physical keyboard.
When you connect your phone to a monitor via the USB-C/HDMI adapter, you'll see the new interface. From there you can browse, write, edit files or open documents as if it were a computer.Although not all apps are adapted for this use, many do work quite well.
Turn your phone into a mouse and keyboard for another PC
Another interesting possibility is to do the opposite: Use your phone as a mouse and keyboard to control another deviceIdeal if your keyboard or touchpad has been damaged and you don't have one handy. This can apply to Windows PCs, Macs, Linux PCs, or even Smart TVs.
For this you can use apps like Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse or the known Remote MouseThey basically work like this:
- Install the app on your mobile.
- Pair your phone via Bluetooth with your PC or TV.
- Use the screen as if it were a touchpad to control the pointer.
- Access the virtual keyboard to type from your mobile phone on the other device.
This system is economical and functional. You don't need to install anything extra on your PC in some cases., simply pair via Bluetooth. All you need is for both devices to support Bluetooth 4.0 or higher.
Does this work with iPhone?
iPhones are more limited in this regard. There's no desktop mode as such in iOS, and you can't connect it to a monitor to use it as a computer like Android. However, Yes, you can enable the desktop version of websites in Safari. to view the pages as on a computer.
On the other hand, You can connect a Bluetooth keyboard to the iPhone for more comfortable typing. What you can't do is use a mouse like you would on an iPad. Apple reserves this feature for iPadOS, although third-party apps allow for limited controls.
You can also use your iPhone's display mode to mirror it to a TV using AirPlay and use it as an "extended display," but you won't be able to change the interface like you can on Android with desktop mode.
Practical uses of a mobile phone as a computer
Once transformed into desktop mode, the phone offers many possibilities:
- Working with office tools: Word, Excel, Google Docs, etc.
- Video calls with Zoom, Google Meet or Teams, even using your mobile camera as a webcam.
- Edit photos and documents from apps like Canva, Snapseed or Adobe Suite.
- Surfing the Internet as if you were using a browser on a PC.
- To play through cloud services or games optimized for desktop mode.
Additionally, the phone usually correctly detects mice and keyboards connected with USB-C adapters, allowing for a very similar experience to that of any computer. You'll even continue to receive notifications from your apps and calls..
Can I use an old cell phone as a computer?
The answer is yes, with nuances. As long as you have Android 10 or higher, and the device is working properly, you can experiment with desktop mode. However, some older phones may not support HDMI output or handle apps properly in extended view.
Yes, If your screen is damaged or unresponsiveYou can try connecting it directly to an external display and controlling it from there. In some cases, you can restart it from desktop mode and even recover data.
With all these alternatives, it's clear that your phone isn't just a phone: it can also be a work tool, a piece of entertainment, or a digital lifeline. Taking advantage of it as a computer is possible if you follow the right steps. Share the information and help others learn how to use a mobile phone as a computer.