Samsung surprises! Auto DeX is said to replace Android Auto and works even where Google failed

According to the latest leaks, Samsung is working on its own system for connecting Galaxy smartphones to car dashboards. The feature, called Auto DeX, will likely be an alternative to Android Auto and, according to available information, will also offer features that Google’s competing solution lacks. Most importantly, it should also work on the phone’s display itself, which could please users who miss the previously available “Android Auto for phones” mode.

First look at the user interface

Information about the upcoming novelty was first published by leaker with the nickname @GalaxyTechie. On the social network X, he shared a screenshot showing the Auto DeX user interface. It resembles classic Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but with typical One UI elements. In the center of the screen is the main area for maps, while on the right side are widgets for the Now Brief function and a music player. On the left edge, we find a vertical panel with the time and quick access to applications.

Here's a FIRST LOOK at Samsung's 'Auto DeX', supporting 8500+ car models of 120+ brands. The great news is, even if your car doesn't support it or you don't have a car, you can use it with some tricks. Another great news is, you can use DeX even if your phone doesn't support it! pic.twitter.com/bQ2WOCKgEr

— Galaxy Techie (@GalaxyTechie) July 8, 2025

An interesting detail is the navigation bar at the bottom of the screen with three buttons typical for Samsung phones. Its presence suggests the possibility that Auto DeX will indeed be usable directly on the phone’s display, even if the car does not support connecting external systems.

Who is Auto DeX intended for?

According to the leaker’s claims, Auto DeX will support more than 8,500 car models from over 120 brands. Even more interesting is the information that the feature will reportedly be usable even in unsupported cars or even without a car – you just need to know “certain tricks”. This would allow Samsung to fill a gap in the market that arose in 2022 when Google discontinued support for the “Android Auto for phones” feature.

This novelty is not Samsung’s first attempt at an alternative to Android Auto. The company previously introduced the Samsung Auto application, which is available on Galaxy phones sold in China. It makes sense there mainly because Android Auto does not commonly work in that country. However, Auto DeX could be prepared for the global market, including Europe.

When will Auto DeX arrive on our phones?

It is not yet clear exactly when Auto DeX will be officially introduced and which phone models will be supported. Speculation pointed to the upcoming One UI 8 update, which debuted on the new foldable phones Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.

The presentation of these devices has already taken place along with a preview of One UI 8, but Samsung did not mention Auto DeX during the presentation. It is therefore likely that developers are still working on this feature and did not manage to prepare it in time for the main presentation, or the company plans to introduce it later separately. As soon as we have the new devices with One UI 8 available, we will of course test whether the Auto DeX feature is hidden there.

Would you welcome competition to Android Auto from Samsung?

Source: Galaxy Techie