However, that began to change with the introduction of ‘Your Phone’ in 2018. This simple app allowed Windows 10 users to access and respond to key information from their phone without ever leaving the desktop. Initial functionality was limited, but it’s become a powerful companion app that can be valuable to many people. Microsoft rebranded the app as ‘Phone Link’ in 2022, giving it a new design that’s more in keeping with Windows 11‘s aesthetic. But Phone Link works with both operating systems, as well as a wide range of Android smartphones. However, some functionality remains exclusive to selected Samsung handsets and the Surface Duo & Duo 2. Here’s everything you need to know about Phone Link, including what the recent updates bring to the table.
What is Phone Link on Windows?
Available for Windows 11 and Windows 10, Phone Link is one of the apps that’s pre-installed when you buy a Windows laptop or PC. As the new name suggests, this offers an easy way to link your Android smartphone and Windows desktop. It’s not quite on the same level as Apple devices, but useful nonetheless. The current iteration of Phone Link allows you to remotely access many of your phone’s most popular functions. These include viewing and responding to notifications, making phone calls and sending texts. You can also control quick settings, manage photos and run Android apps, although the latter is now natively supported in Windows 11. However, only a select few phones include a ‘Link to Windows’ feature built directly into the device’s settings. This aims to make the process of moving content or using mobile apps on the desktop feel seamless. Samsung’s latest S and Note series phones are supported, alongside the company’s foldables and both generations of Surface Duo. The full list is available on the Microsoft website.
Does Phone Link work with iPhone?
Unfortunately not. Phone Link and its associated features aren’t compatible with any Apple devices, although this wasn’t always the case. Previously, the Microsoft Edge iPhone app allowed users to share web pages to the equivalent app on the Windows desktop. However, that functionality was removed in July 2021. Even so, that was just one of the many features available with Phone Link. AirDrop offers a similar feature for the iPhone, iPad and Mac, but iOS and Windows don’t usually work well together.
How to use Phone Link on Windows 11
The first step involves downloading the ‘Link to Windows’ app on your Android phone, but this will already be installed if you have a recent Samsung or Surface Duo device. You’ll also need to make sure you’re running the latest version of Phone Link – head to the Microsoft Store on your computer to check it’s update to date. Once that’s taken care of, here’s what you need to do. That’s it! Most functions are now available, although you’ll need to pair via Bluetooth and give further permissions for call access.
How to use Phone Link on Windows 10
The process is roughly the same on Windows 10, although it does look slightly different: The Phone Link app should now be set up. As above, more permissions and Bluetooth pairing are required for for call integration.
Related articles for further reading
Windows 11: Everything you need to know How to get Windows 11 How to use AirDrop
As the resident expert on Windows, Senior Staff Writer Anyron’s main focus is PCs and laptops. Much of the rest of his time is split between smartphones, tablets and audio, with a particular focus on Android devices.
