Pixel devices haven’t supported display output via USB-C for years. Now, Google has finally enabled DisplayPort Alternate Mode on Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro with the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 update. This allows you to mirror your phone’s screen on a larger screen.

While most Pixel devices in the past have offered USB-C 3.1 or above (the hardware requirements to transfer video over a USB-C port), Google has disabled this feature until now. Last October, the feature was available on Pixel 8 through projects like GrapheneOS. Now Google has implemented this feature to the point where you don’t need to modify your system to use DisplayPort alternate mode.

When you connect the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro to an external display, a prompt should appear asking if you want to mirror the image to the external display. If you continue, the contents of your smartphone’s screen will appear in the center of the monitor and the rest will be filled with wallpaper. The revamped Desktop Mode interface is reportedly under development and is currently hidden behind flags. Meanwhile, older Pixel devices can still enable and use this DisplayPort feature via the Magisk module. The process involves installing Magisk Manager, downloading the DisplayPort Magisk module and flashing it using the tool. You restart your phone and you’re good to go.

It is noteworthy that Samsung devices with the necessary hardware have had this feature since 2017. It’s called Samsung DeX and offers a more desktop-like interface. In addition to using USB-C, Samsung has also managed to transfer data wirelessly, which makes it even more attractive for those who need it. A native Android desktop mode is reportedly in development alongside Android 10. It is not yet known when or if Google will offer an equivalent feature.