Nex Dock 2 (a smartphone laptop extension) shipping soon?

poVoq

Looks like the next iteration of the Nex Dock is near shipping the first units to Kickstarter backers:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/nexcomputer/nexdock-2/posts/2672449

From a quick look at the specs (and that they claim Rasberry PI support) it looks like this could be an ideal companion for a Ubuntu Touch Phone.

See also:
https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2019/07/nexdock-2-xda-hands-on-video
http://nexdock.com/

@PINE64 have you considered selling "empty" PineBook Pros for a similar purpose?

Lakotaubp

@poVoq I think there was an issue or it's very limited with using this for UT but maybe wrong think @dobey answered before but as said maybe wrong

dobey

@Lakotaubp It can work, but not all features. You will still need Slimport and HDMI cables, and won't be able to charge the phone or use the keyboard in it. It will basically be a dead screen.

It'll work better with a Pi running UT though, as it has separate USB and HDMI, so you could at least use more than the screen.

I don't think the NexDock 2 does Slimport itself, so even with a newer device that does do Slimport on USB-C, the video wouldn't work I think, so you'd still need a separate dock for it.

Lakotaubp

@dobey Thanks. That clears that up nicely.

poVoq

Ok I understand that a Nexus5 via Slimport would not work other than a pure HDMI out, but what about upcoming devices with video out via USB-C? The PinePhone for example should be able to do it and maybe there will be a port to an Android device that supports it as well.

dobey

@poVoq If it actually supports DisplayPort alt mode on USB-C (Slimport), then it might work. However, I am not sure if Pinephone does Slimport, or if it does MHL or HDMI alt mode instead.

It's a bit unclear, as at one point it was claimed it would use DisplayLink, but now on their web site the tech specs say DisplayPort on USB-C (which should be Slimport).

poVoq

@dobey
On the PinePhone shop page it says: "USB: type C (SlimPort), USB Host, DisplayPort Alternate Mode output"
https://store.pine64.org/?product=pinephone-braveheart-limited-edition-linux-smartphone-for-early-adaptor