Android 12L for Surface Duo includes a secret cloud-based Continuum mode

Remoting into a Windows PC is now easier on Surface Duo

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

What you need to know

TheAndroid 12L releaseforSurface Duokeeps on surprising us, as it’snow been discoveredthat the update also includes a hidden new cloud-based Continuum style mode that allows users to dock the device up to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and connect to a Windows PC using the Remote Desktop App.

The feature appears to be unfinished and can only be accessed with developer mode enabled and toggling “force desktop mode.” Windows Central understands that Microsoft is planning to use this feature with its Windows 365 Cloud PC service in the future, advertising the Surface Duo to business customers as a Windows 365 machine in addition to running Android.

Android 12L for Surface Duo has a “continuum” mode for connecting to a Windows PC using the RDP app. pic.twitter.com/YwOvwOuZruOctober 27, 2022

To enable the hidden mode on Surface Duo running Android 12L:

Android 12L for Surface Duo launched earlier this week and includes a refreshed UI inspired by Windows 11’s design language, a new pen menu, more fluid animations, and blur effects in areas like the notifications shade and multitasking switcher. Be sure tocheck out our hands-on video here.

Thanks for the tip,@TerryGecko!

Get the Windows Central Newsletter

All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.

Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch onTwitterandThreads