Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you.
The short answer: To set up your Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra for maximum productivity, enable DeX mode, customize the taskbar, set up multi-window shortcuts, configure S Pen actions, and sync your apps and files with Samsung Flow or Microsoft Phone Link.
DeX mode transforms your tablet’s interface into a desktop-like environment with resizable windows, a taskbar, and a start menu. To enable it, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the DeX icon (or go to Settings > Advanced Features > Samsung DeX). You can also connect a keyboard and mouse via Bluetooth or use the USB-C port for a wired connection. Once in DeX, you can pin frequently used apps to the taskbar, right-click (or long-press) for context menus, and use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+C/V/X. For maximum productivity, enable DeX for all apps in the DeX settings, so every app opens in a windowed mode.
The taskbar in DeX is your command center. To customize it, right-click the taskbar, choose ‘Taskbar settings’, then ‘Edit’. You can add or remove apps, change the order, and even set it to auto-hide. Additionally, enable Edge Panels from Settings > Display > Edge panels. You can add app pairs, contacts, and tools. For quick access to your most-used productivity apps, create an app pair (e.g., Samsung Notes and a browser) and add it to the Edge panel. This lets you launch both in split-screen instantly.
The S9 Ultra’s 14.6-inch screen is ideal for multitasking. To use split-screen, swipe in from the right edge to open the Edge panel, then drag an app to the left or right side. You can also drag and drop apps from the taskbar. For a three-window layout, drag an app to a corner. To save window layouts, go to Recent Apps, tap the app icon, and select ‘Save split screen’. Then create a shortcut on the home screen for one-tap launch. In DeX, you can also snap windows to the edges (drag to the left or right edge) to resize them automatically.
The S Pen is a productivity powerhouse. Go to Settings > Advanced Features > S Pen > Air actions to customize. You can set the button to launch a specific app (e.g., Samsung Notes) with a single click, or set double-click to take a screenshot. Use Screen off memo for quick notes: just remove the S Pen and start writing. For even more, enable ‘S Pen to text’ in the Samsung Keyboard to handwrite and convert to text. Also, try ‘Smart Select’ from the Edge panel to quickly capture and extract text from images.
To keep your workflow seamless, use Samsung Flow or Microsoft Phone Link. Samsung Flow allows you to connect your Galaxy phone to the tab, enabling notifications, clipboard sharing, and file transfer. Microsoft Phone Link (formerly Your Phone) works with any Windows PC and lets you access your phone’s apps, messages, and photos on the tablet. Set up either by scanning a QR code from the respective app or website. Also, enable ‘Call & text on other devices’ in your phone’s settings to answer calls on the tablet.
For long work sessions, go to Settings > Device care > Battery, and enable ‘Adaptive battery’. Also, set a power-saving mode that limits background activity. To boost performance, in the same menu tap ‘Performance’ and choose ‘Optimized’. For graphics-intensive apps like video editing, consider enabling ‘Enhanced processing’ in Settings > Battery and device care > Battery > More battery settings. Additionally, adjust the display to ‘Adaptive refresh rate’ for smooth scrolling while saving battery. Finally, use the ‘Secure Folder’ feature to keep work files separate and protected.
Q: Can I use the S9 Ultra as a laptop replacement?
A: Yes, with DeX mode and a keyboard cover, you get a desktop-class experience. Many users find it sufficient for word processing, spreadsheets, email, and light programming. For heavy tasks like 4K video editing, it may struggle compared to a dedicated laptop.
Q: How do I connect a mouse and keyboard?
A: You can connect via Bluetooth in Settings > Connections > Bluetooth, or use a USB-C hub for a wired connection. The S9 Ultra supports USB-C to HDMI for external monitors, and you can use a wireless mouse with USB receiver via an OTG adapter.
Q: Is the S Pen included with the tablet?
A: Yes, the S Pen is included in the box and attaches magnetically to the back for charging. If you lose it, you can buy a replacement, but ensure it’s the correct model (EJ-PX910).
For more detailed recommendations, check out our Expert Pick: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra Leads Best 2026 Android Tablets guide.
We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.
Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product mentioned on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, any ranking referenced here is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review.