6 ways to turn a smartphone into a PC

Why should you turn your phone into a laptop?

The most obvious reason is to have a compact computer in your pocket at any time. You can't always carry a laptop, even the most compact device like an ultrabook.

This means the smartphone can be used as a replacement PC in an emergency. Screen size limitations are no longer a big problem, thanks to the wireless HDMI port.

The real magic lies in the desktop user interface. When connected to a compatible TV, the current phone interface is no longer available. Instead, the traditional desktop interface will be displayed.

How to turn your phone into a computer

We are only talking about solutions that require a desktop user interface (Android is also accepted). Unfortunately, iOS devices will not be present in this fun.

To turn your phone into a PC, you need:

1. Keyboard and mouse have bluetooth connection (or connect via USB and USB-OTG cable also).
2. The display supports .

Or you must have a socket that supports HDMI, USB and even Ethernet.

1. Samsung devices have DeX mode

Perhaps the best option for turning an Android phone into a computer in 2023 and beyond is reserved for Samsung owners. With the Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+, Note 8 and later, you get the DeX feature. Activated from the notification tray, DeX is essentially a desktop environment for Android.

Simply connect your phone to a nearby wireless HDMI-ready display, connect your input devices, and you're ready to work. (You can also use a USB-C to HDMI adapter).

DeX gives you access to all the usual Android productivity apps, in windowed mode. Samsung DeX is simply the best way to turn your phone into a computer. If you own a suitable device, now is the time to check this feature out.

2. Turn old Windows Phone into cheap PC

If you have heard about Windows 10 Mobile or Windows Phone, you probably know that it is a thing of the past. Although largely useless in terms of applications, some models have good cameras.

But hidden in these cheap old smartphones is a secret mode: Windows desktop. Three phones have been released with Continuum:

1. HP Elite 3
2. Lumia 950
3. Lumia 950 XL

Thanks to the first version of Continuum technology (which currently manages switching between desktop and tablet modes on hybrid Windows laptops), you can connect your phone to a monitor and see the Windows desktop environment.

You have access to the applications installed on it, such as Microsoft Office, and use the phone for calls when connected. A Bluetooth keyboard and mouse can be connected, but a portable keyboard can also be used. The screen can even be used as a laptop-style touchpad.

Note : Windows 10 Mobile and Windows Phone are no longer maintained or updated. Therefore, using this method may expose you to online attacks or vulnerabilities in the operating system and software.

3. Turn your Android phone into a computer with Maru OS

In 2016, Android surpassed Windows to become the most used operating system by consumers on the planet. Therefore, it makes sense to explore its potential as a desktop operating system.

Maru OS is a branch of Android that currently only runs on some models. So if you can get your hands on a Nexus 5 (2013) or Nexus 5X (2015), Nexus 6P or the original Google Pixel handset, you'll get the best results. These are phones that can be purchased on eBay or other used electronics vendors at very low prices. This is a full operating system that is installed instead of or along with Android.

4. Use Android phone as PC with Desktop Launcher app

Many desktop launchers have been released for Android. Most have been phased out, but one that is being actively developed is the Taskbar.

However, you probably won't install the Taskbar separately. Instead, you should use it in conjunction with Android's secret desktop mode for best results.

Once configured, you can install the Taskbar and connect your phone to the USB-C hub. With a keyboard, mouse, and even some external hard drives connected, no one will know that you've essentially converted your phone into a computer.

5. How to use Android phone as a computer with Chromecast

If the above methods seem a bit difficult to use, expensive, or both, consider this easy option. Need to access your Android phone's word processor in an emergency? You can quickly use your Android phone like a PC if you have:

1. USB-C or Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
2. or (other similar solution) plugged into the TV

Just load the document you want to view, connect the keyboard and share your screen via Chromecast.

6. Use your smartphone as a Linux computer with Ubuntu Touch

Ubuntu Touch is a Linux-based operating system for smartphones. Managed by the UBports team, Ubuntu Touch runs on a variety of devices.

Ubuntu Touch officially runs (and is supported) on:

1. Volla Phone
2. Fairphone 2
3. LG Nexus 5 (2013)
4. OnePlus One
5. PinePhone

However, many other phones can run Ubuntu Touch. A key feature of Ubuntu Touch is the Convergence system. Like Samsung DeX, this is a desktop environment, activated when the phone is connected to an external display.

When the phone is connected via wireless HDMI to the TV, the user interface is a full Ubuntu desktop. The operating system comes pre-installed with various tools, including LibreOffice. Having a cell phone that can be used as a computer instantly is great in terms of productivity!

Isabella Humphrey

Update 05 August 2024