One of the big attractions of Apple products is how they seamlessly share information between devices. It always felt like Microsoft was catching up in this regard, with Android being the only rival in the phone space, which complicates matters.
However, that started to change with the introduction of “Your Phone” in 2018. This simple app allowed Windows 10 users to access and respond to key information on their phone without ever leaving the office. The initial functionality was limited, but it has evolved into a powerful companion app that can be invaluable to many people.
Microsoft rebranded the app as “Phone Link” in 2022, giving it a new design more in line with Windows 11’s aesthetic. Phone Link was long exclusive to Android phones, but it now also works with an iPhone.
But Phone Link works with both operating systems, as well as a wide range of Android smartphones. However, some features remain exclusive to select Samsung handsets and the Surface Duo & Duo 2.
Here’s everything you need to know about Phone Link, including what 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 pre-installed apps when you buy a Windows laptop or PC. As the new name suggests, this offers a simple way to link your smartphone and your Windows desktop. It’s not quite on the same level as between Apple devices, but useful nonetheless.
The current iteration of Phone Link lets you access many of your phone’s most popular features remotely. These include viewing and responding to notifications, making phone calls, and sending text messages. 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 few select phones include a “Link to Windows” feature built right into the device settings. This aims to make the process of moving content or using mobile apps on the desktop seamless. Samsung’s recent flagships are supported, alongside the company’s foldables and both generations of Surface Duo.
Does Phone Link work with iPhone?
Yes. For a long time, Phone Link was only available with Android phones.
But in May 2023, Microsoft added compatibility with iOS devices to the app. The iPhone is fully compatible with all basic features, which means it’s finally possible to use Apple’s handset with a Windows desktop.
How to use Phone Link with an Android phone
Setting up Phone Link is relatively straightforward. Remember that the app comes pre-installed on some devices, which speeds up this process. But here is the complete method for any Android phone with access to the Google Play Store:
- On your computer, search for “Phone Link” and click on the appropriate option
- From the intro screen, click on “Android”
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- On your Android phone, paste aka.ms/yourpc in your browser and follow the instructions. You should be redirected to the Google Play Store
- Download the Link to Windows application if you haven’t already. When done, tap “Open” and then “Link your phone and PC”
- You should see a message saying “Is the QR code on your PC ready?”. Press continue
- Accept all required permissions, then hold your phone in front of the QR code on your computer to scan it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to enter a PIN instead
- Tap continue on your phone, then tap continue on your desktop
That’s it! Most features are now available, although you will need to pair via Bluetooth and give other permissions for call access.
How to use Phone Link with an iPhone
The steps with an iPhone are a bit different:
- On your computer, search for “Phone Link” and click on the appropriate option
- From the introduction screen, click on “iPhone”
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- If prompted, turn on Bluetooth
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- On your iPhone, open the camera app and hover over the Windows device’s QR code to scan it.
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- Open the link when prompted, then click “Continue.” Turn on Bluetooth if prompted and tap “Pair”
- If the number you see on your iPhone is the same as on Windows, tap “Pair” on it
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- From the following screen on your Windows device, accept the permissions
That’s it! You should now see a screen that looks something like below.
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