Transform Your Tablet Into an Ideal Second Screen with This Free App

If you’re in need of an additional monitor but want to avoid the expense of purchasing one, your smartphone or tablet can seamlessly transform into a second screen. All you require is the appropriate application to unlock its potential.

Introducing GlideX: Setup Made Easy

GlideX Home interface open on Windows 11

GlideX is a versatile application that facilitates connectivity between your Android device, iPhone, or iPad and a Windows PC through Wi-Fi or USB. While its features encompass basic functions like file transfers and screen mirroring, its standout capability is the Extend feature. This allows your smartphone or tablet to be used as a secondary monitor. Additionally, GlideX supports multi-device extension, enabling the use of another Windows PC or Mac as an extra display.

For ASUS laptop owners, a special GlideX Exclusive edition is available, providing enhanced functionalities. This version supports connections with up to two devices simultaneously and allows for a higher resolution of 2K at 60Hz, compared to the standard limitation of 1080p at 60Hz with just one attached device. It also features remote access capabilities and shared camera functionality. However, the standard version suffices for most users seeking a reliable extended display experience.

Installing GlideX is straightforward. Download the application on your Windows PC from the Microsoft Store, and then install the companion app on your Android or iOS devices. Open both applications, ensuring all devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, or opt for a USB connection.

If you’re using Android and prefer a USB link, you’ll first need to enable Developer Options and USB debugging. After activation, connect your devices using a USB cable.

The application will automatically recognize available devices. Click Start Now on your PC, and follow the prompts to successfully pair your devices.

Utilizing Your Phone or Tablet as an Extended Display

To utilize your mobile device as an extended screen, launch GlideX on your PC and go to the Cross-device operation tab. Under the Extend section, click Search for device. Your phone or tablet should appear in the list. Select it, and accept the screen share request on your mobile device to establish the connection.

A Samsung Galaxy Device Detected on the GlideX app on Windows 11

Once connected, your mobile device effectively becomes an extension of your PC display. You can launch applications on your primary screen and seamlessly move them to your phone or tablet, switching between windows with Alt + Tab, just as you would with a conventional monitor. To disconnect, simply select the unlink icon next to your device.

One of GlideX’s compelling features is its touchscreen support, particularly beneficial for tablet users. You can interact directly with your tablet’s screen—tapping, scrolling, and zooming—making it as functional as a touchscreen laptop. This is particularly advantageous for reviewing documents, managing chat applications, or keeping reference materials visible while you work.

GlideX display configuration window showing dual monitor setup with PC monitor and connected phone, including streaming quality options for Dynamic and Manual modes

GlideX also provides flexible options for display configuration. By clicking on the Preferences option, you can customize settings like layout, resolution, and frame rate. Select between Dynamic mode, which auto-adjusts quality based on network conditions, or Manual mode to fix your settings. Depending on your connection quality, resolutions of up to FHD (1080p) and frame rates up to 60 FPS are available.

What truly distinguishes GlideX from comparable solutions is its unparalleled flexibility. You can continue using your phone as usual without severing the connection to the extended display. Simply shift between apps on your mobile device, and when you need the extended screen, you can switch back to GlideX with ease.

Exploring More Features of GlideX

GlideX offers an array of features beyond simple screen extension, aimed at boosting productivity across devices. You can mirror your phone’s display on your PC or utilize the Unify Control feature to link multiple devices, allowing control over your phone, tablet, and even another PC with a single keyboard and mouse, effortlessly moving the cursor between screens.

File transfer has never been easier with the File Transfer feature. Simply drag and drop files into the transfer window, and they will rapidly appear on your other device. The Activity Feed keeps a comprehensive record of all transfers, providing file names, sizes, and status updates in a user-friendly interface.

GlideX File Transfer Windows showing Send and Receive tab

For quick access to your images, the Phone Album feature operates similarly to Phone Link’s Photos, enabling you to browse and view all the pictures stored on your phone directly from your PC. You can also download multiple files simultaneously or delete them to clear storage space effectively.

Furthermore, the Exclusive version introduces several practical enhancements. The Communication feature permits making and receiving phone calls via your PC’s audio system.Shared Cam can turn your smartphone into a webcam for video conferencing applications like Zoom or Skype. Lastly, Remote Access allows your ASUS PC to function as personal cloud storage, granting access to your files anywhere through your mobile device.

Whether you require an additional monitor for spreadsheets, want to keep your messaging apps visible, or simply need an efficient way to transfer files, GlideX addresses all these needs through a streamlined interface. While it may not fully replace Phone Link for all users, particularly those without an ASUS computer, it remains an excellent solution for extending your workspace without any extra financial investment.

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