It has been known for some time that Samsung has been experimenting with the idea of running Linux distributions through its DeX platform on its Galaxy smartphones. The idea, being quite simple, is basically there to allow the user to use their device for multiple purposes, one of these being a replacement for the traditional desktop.
Even though this idea is nothing new, Samsung has posted a demo video of a Galaxy Note8 running Linux via DeX. The video, which has not been made public yet, reveals how the company expects it to function. The user connects the device to the DeX dock, and Linux will start through an app on the phone. This functionality is already available on some of its flagship smartphones, however, instead of running Linux, it scales the Android environment to fit on a larger display.
Samsung explained its vision for the service:
"Installed as an app, Linux on Galaxy gives smartphones the capability to run multiple operating systems, enabling developers to work with their preferred Linux-based distributions on their mobile devices. Whenever they need to use a function that is not available on the smartphone OS, users can simply switch to the app and run any program they need to in a Linux OS environment."
For developers who are looking to take advantage of this feature, they can sign up here to be notified as to when development tools will become available. Samsung has not revealed when this will roll out to the general public.
The Samsung Galaxy Note8, which already supports the DeX feature set, went on sale worldwide earlier this year seeing great success in many markets, and the device will be available in a new "Deepsea Blue" color from November 16. The Galaxy S8, and S8+, on the other hand, can also be purchased online through the Microsoft Store today.
Source: MSPoweruser