Dell improves mini PC usability with software updates
Dell's updates will make the Wyse Cloud Connect easier to use with touchscreens and remotely
June 19, 2014, 2:45 PM — The first software updates to improve functionality, including enterprise use, are out from Dell for its thumb-size PC, the Wyse Cloud Connect.
The PC runs on the Android OS and can be plugged into a TV or monitor with an HDMI port. It resembles a USB stick and can mimic Android on a smartphone and tablet, but on screens up to 55 inches.
Updates announced Thursday address issues such as using the device remotely and accessing cloud services.
Dell said accessing remote desktops through Cloud Connect will become easier through support for Wyse vWorkspace software, which is already being used in Dell's Wyse thin clients. Citrix's XenDesktop and VMware's Horizon View apps will also come pre-installed.
The updates also include the Cloud Connect Controller App, which turns any Android smartphone or tablet into a keyboard or mouse for use with the mini PC. The app establishes a Bluetooth connection, and a mobile device can mimic mouse functionality through Android gestures such as swiping, dragging and pinching. The app, which can be downloaded from Google's Play Store, eliminates the need to carry a separate Bluetooth keyboard.
A new feature called Google Dynamic Touch enables the mini PC to identify touchscreen monitors and whether downloaded apps support touch. Most Android applications support touch, but the feature allows apps to support different screen sizes.
