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NexDock

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Nex Computer LLC
Company typePrivately held company
Industry
FoundedJanuary 22, 2016; 8 years ago (2016-01-22)
FounderEmre Kosmaz
HeadquartersLos Angeles, California, U.S.
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
ProductsLapdock
Websitenexdock.com

NexDock is a series of lapdock devices produced by Nex Computer LLC. These products function as laptop shells, offering a display, keyboard, trackpad, and an integrated battery, while relying on external smartphones, tablets, or single-board computers for processing power and software. By integrating with mobile operating systems and desktop modes, NexDock devices are intended for users who prefer a modular approach to computing, utilizing a single core device across multiple form factors.

History

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The original NexDock was introduced in 2016 following a successful Indiegogo campaign. Its development coincided with growing interest in smartphone-driven desktop interfaces, influenced by technologies such as Windows Continuum for Windows 10 Mobile devices, which enabled phones to power full desktop environments when connected to external peripherals.[1] Early reports from sources including PCWorld,[2] Windows Central,[3] and Digital Trends[4] noted the device’s capability to leverage a mobile device's computing power within a laptop-like environment.

Subsequent iterations introduced features such as touchscreens, convertible hinges, wireless connectivity, and larger displays. As smartphones and single-board computers became more powerful, the NexDock lineup evolved accordingly, offering increased versatility and functionality.

Models

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NexDock (Original, 2016)

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The first NexDock established the concept of a laptop “shell” designed to work with external computing devices. It featured a 14.1-inch display, integrated battery, keyboard, trackpad, and basic connectivity options. By connecting to smartphones, mini PCs, or HDMI sticks, it provided a desktop-like interface on a larger screen.[2][4]

NexDock 2 (2019)

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In 2019, Nex Computer launched the NexDock 2 through a successful Kickstarter campaign, refining the original design with improved connectivity and build quality.The campaign approached its US$500,000 stretch goal, reflecting strong interest in the concept.[5] Reviews noted the NexDock 2’s flexibility, particularly when used with Samsung smartphones for Samsung DeX mode and other portable computing solutions.[6][7][8]

NexDock Touch (2020)

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Released in 2020, the NexDock Touch introduced a touchscreen IPS display and USB-C support, enabling direct interaction with desktop modes and tablet-style interfaces. Reviewers noted its effectiveness in extending a smartphone’s capabilities, particularly when used with platforms like Samsung DeX and Windows on ARM.[9][10][11][12][13]

NexDock 360 (2021)

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Introduced in 2021, the NexDock 360 incorporated a 360-degree hinge, allowing it to be used in multiple configurations—laptop, tablet, tent, or stand. Analysts commended its adaptability and suitability for users who frequently transition between different viewing and input modes.[14][15]

NexDock Wireless (2023)

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Launched in 2023, the NexDock Wireless introduced wireless display connectivity, eliminating the necessity for a physical cable connection. Reviewers observed that this feature offered greater flexibility in device placement, while still depending on the capabilities of the connected smartphone or computer for overall performance.[16][17]

NexDock XL (2023)

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Also introduced in 2023, the NexDock XL expanded the display size to 15.6 inches, catering to users requiring additional screen space for multitasking, media creation, or content consumption. It continued NexDock’s focus on modular and sustainable computing, offering both wired and wireless connectivity, with some variants also including wireless charging capabilities.[18][19][20]

Design and features

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All NexDock models adopt a clamshell design with a display, keyboard, trackpad, and integrated battery. As they contain no on-board CPU or storage, they rely entirely on the connected host device for processing power. Over time, NexDocks have incorporated USB-C support, touchscreen capabilities, convertible hinges, wireless display functionality, higher-quality construction, and improved ergonomics. These enhancements are intended to more seamlessly integrate mobile and desktop computing.

Reception

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NexDock products have generally been positively received by those interested in convergent computing and device sustainability. Instead of purchasing separate laptops, users can upgrade their existing smartphones or single-board computers, extending the usability of their docking hardware.[4][21] Some critiques emphasize that overall performance and experience largely depend on the connected device’s processing capabilities. However, as mobile processors and desktop operating modes advance, the NexDock concept has remained an option for flexible and cost-effective computing solutions.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Thurrott, P. (2016-04-25). "First Look: NexDock + Windows 10 Mobile Continuum". Thurrott.com. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  2. ^ a b Keizer, G. (2016-04-28). "NexDock is a laptop that's actually powered by your Windows or Android phone". PCWorld. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  3. ^ Rubino, D. (2016-05-31). "NexDock video tour". Windows Central. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  4. ^ a b c Elliott, M. (2016-05-27). "NexDock first impressions: This no-brainer shell can turn your tablet or smartphone into a real laptop". Digital Trends. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  5. ^ "NexDock 2: Crowdfunded laptop shell closes in on its US$500,000 stretch goal". Notebookcheck. 2019-04-17. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  6. ^ Smith, M. (2020-01-02). "NexDock 2 hands-on: Work anywhere with your Samsung smartphone". ZDNet. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  7. ^ Holland, M. (2020-01-17). "NexDock 2 review: Turn your phone into a PC — sort of". Android Authority. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  8. ^ Fingas, R. (2020-01-15). "Going DeXtral: The NexDock 2 is a niche gadget with wide potential". The Register. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  9. ^ Linder, B. (2020-07-06). "NexDock Touch is a touchscreen laptop shell for Samsung DeX and Windows on ARM devices". Liliputing. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  10. ^ Smith, M. (2020-06-30). "NexDock Touch review: Extend your full smartphone experience, enhanced with DeX". ZDNet. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  11. ^ Holland, M. (2021-02-07). "NexDock Touch review: A laptop shell to augment your phone's DeX mode". Android Authority. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  12. ^ Richards, M. (2021-02-11). "NexDock Touch laptop docking station review". TechRadar. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  13. ^ "NexDock Touch Laptop Shell Features a Touchscreen Display, An Optional Magnetic Mount For Your Phone". CNX Software. 2020-06-04. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  14. ^ "NexDock 360 Touch". ZDNet. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  15. ^ Richards, M. (2021-02-10). "NexDock 360 review". TechRadar. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  16. ^ Anderson, D. "NexDock Wireless Review: Is it still the best lapdock accessory?". Android Central. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  17. ^ Putz, M. (2023-01-14). "NexDock Wireless: Nex Computer announces refreshed NexDock laptop dock with wireless connectivity". Notebookcheck. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  18. ^ Linder, B. (2023-05-10). "NexDock XL is a 15.6 inch convertible laptop dock for your phone (or other gadgets)". Liliputing. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  19. ^ Haver, D. (2023-05-11). "NexDock XL: First 15.6-inch convertible laptop dock introduced with wired and wireless connectivity options". Notebookcheck. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  20. ^ "NexDock XL 15.6-inch touchscreen laptop shell for smartphones supports wireless charging". CNX Software. 2023-06-06. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
  21. ^ Richards, M. (2021-02-10). "NexDock 360 review". TechRadar. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
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