have you ever thought about reuse that Android phone you have stored in a drawerMaybe you don't use it as a phone anymore, but it still works perfectly. It turns out you can give it a new lease on life, turning it into a functional desktop computer. Yes, you read that right: with a few accessories and some configuration, you can use an old Android as if it were a basic PC and even add peripherals.
In this article we show you all the possible ways to Turn your Android smartphone into a PC, connecting peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and external displays. We'll also explore the desktop modes already built into some high-end phones and what apps you can install to simulate a PC environment. Everything is explained in clear, step-by-step language so you don't get lost.
Basic Requirements: What You Need to Get Started
Turning an Android phone into a PC with peripherals requires a few essential items, but don't worry, you probably already have several at home. Here's a basic list:
- An Android phone with Android 10 or higher, as many of the necessary features are not available in previous versions.
- Keyboard and mouse, preferably Bluetooth. If you don't have one, you can use USB devices with an OTG adapter.
- USB-C to HDMI adapter to connect your mobile to a monitor or television.
- A base or stand to keep the phone stable while you work with it.
With these elements you can now set up your own Android desktop anywhere. Let's see in detail how it's done.
How to connect peripherals to your Android
One of the first things you can do to get closer to the desktop experience is connect a mouse and keyboard to your mobileAndroid has natively supported these connections for years, so you won't need to install drivers or perform complicated configurations.
Mouse: You can use a Bluetooth device or connect it via a USB OTG adapter. When you do this, you'll see a pointer on your phone screen, similar to the one on your computer. You can use it to navigate between apps, click, drag items, and more.
Keyboard: When you connect a physical keyboard, it automatically replaces the virtual keyboard. It is especially useful for writing documents, emails or even chatting comfortably. If you want to expand your knowledge on how to transform your mobile into a computer, you can consult the desktop mode on Android.
Both peripherals work better if you also connect the phone to an external display, since The mobile interface is still somewhat limited on small screens.
View Android on a monitor or TV
For a true PC feel, you need a big screen. This can be easily achieved using a USB-C to HDMI adapter., which allows you to project your mobile screen onto a monitor or television.
Once connected, the phone will duplicate its screen, and if you are also using a keyboard and mouse, you can interact in a much more fluid and comfortable wayKeep in mind that resolution and quality will depend on the adapter you use, so invest in a decent one.
Additionally, some phones allow you to project your screen wirelessly using Miracast or Chromecast, although the experience may not be as stable as with a cable.
Use launchers with a desktop interface
To make the Android environment look more like Windows or another desktop system, you can install a launcher with a PC interface. One of the most popular is Computer Launcher, which simulates the Windows style with a taskbar, start menu, and floating windows.
Another one you can try is Lawnchair Launcher, highly customizable and compatible with widgets, animated backgrounds and advanced settings.
Native desktop modes on Android phones
Some brands have integrated directly into their mobile phones a real desktop mode which are activated when connected to an external display. These modes adapt the Android interface to function like a desktop operating system, including windows, multitasking, and more.
Samsung DeX
Samsung offers one of the most mature and functional desktop modes known as DeX. It's available from the Galaxy S8 onwards, including Note and foldable Galaxy Z models.
To activate it, connect your phone to a display via USB-C or a DeX dock (on older models). The system will automatically switch to a desktop environment where you can work seamlessly. You can use it for office automation, browse the web, edit documents or manage files as if you were on a real computer.
Motorola Ready For
Motorola has developed its own version called Ready For, available on models such as the Motorola Edge or ThinkPhone. This interface not only allows you to view the screen in a large format, but also optimizes keyboard and mouse usage, completely transforming the experience.
With Ready For, you can even use your phone's lens as a webcam or make calls while working from the projected desktop.
Huawei Desktop Mode
Huawei has also invested heavily in this feature in its high-end P, Mate, and foldable ranges. Its desktop mode allows a multi-window experience, where the phone acts as a touchpad if you don't have a mouse.
As with the other modes, you simply connect your phone via USB-C or Wi-Fi to a compatible display. No external apps are required, and the transition is very smooth.
Xiaomi and its PC mode
In some Xiaomi models like the Mi Mix Fold, there is a PC mode that transforms the interface into a horizontal environment similar to WindowsThis feature is also available on some other models running MIUI 12.5 and Android 11, although compatibility varies.
To activate it, you can install a specific app called PC Launcher, which changes the system layout and requires a reboot of the device. It is an interesting option if you want to experiment beyond the traditional launcher.
Force experimental desktop mode on Android
Starting with Android 10, Google included a experimental desktop mode accessible from developer optionsAlthough it is hidden by default, it can be easily activated:
- Activate the developer menu by tapping “Build number” several times.
- Go to System > Developer Options.
- Find and enable “Force Desktop Mode.”
Once this is done, download a compatible launcher like Lawnchair, accept the necessary permissions, and connect your phone to an external display using the HDMI adapter. The interface will change automatically and you can use your mobile as a desktop computer..
Turn your Android into a PC peripheral
Did you know you can also use your phone as a mouse or keyboard for your PC or Mac? Applications like Remote Mouse allow you to transform your device into a multifunction wireless controller..
You just need to install the app on your phone and the server program on your computer. Once connected via Wi-Fi or even 4G, your phone can move the cursor, type text, or control presentations. It is ideal for use as a remote control from the sofa or for work presentations..
Other interesting accessories and uses
In addition to keyboards and mice, Android allows you to connect many other devices via USB OTG:
- External USB flash drives to expand storage and transfer files easily.
- Gamepads compatible for more comfortable play, especially with console emulators.
- TV antennas special to watch channels without consuming mobile data (although they require apps and technical compatibility).
In most cases, you won't need root or any complicated setup, as long as your device supports OTG and has enough power to run whatever you connect.
One of the great advantages of this type of configuration is that it can also help you in emergency situations.For example, if you're having a problem with your phone's screen (it's black or unresponsive), you can use desktop mode to try to force a restart or even recover your data.
Thanks to Android's flexibility, you can replicate many of a PC's basic features directly from your smartphone and even add peripherals. With the necessary accessories and some patience to configure the system, It is entirely possible to work, study or play without having a laptop on you.And all with a device you may not even have used anymore.