On July 24, Microsoft unveiled an exciting enhancement to the Link to Windows app, transforming it into a comprehensive hub for seamless interaction between Android devices and Windows 11 PCs. In a recent blog post, the company emphasized the app’s new capabilities, stating, “We’ve reimagined the Link to Windows app as a connected PC experience hub — a central place where you can access, share, and control content between your Android phone and Windows PC.”
Enhanced Features for a Smoother Experience
Picture this scenario: you step away from your desk for a moment, perhaps to grab a coffee, only to realize that your confidential presentation is still open on your PC. The thought of leaving sensitive information exposed can be unsettling. Fortunately, with the upgraded Link to Windows app, you can now lock your PC directly from your phone with just a single tap.
This latest upgrade is significant. Previously, users could configure their PCs to lock automatically when they moved beyond a certain distance, determined by their phone’s location. Now, the manual locking feature allows for greater flexibility, enabling users to secure their screens even when they are still within the geofencing range but too far to reach the PC quickly.
The app also boasts a refreshed design, providing users with the ability to monitor their PC’s battery life and current Wi-Fi status right from their Android device. This added convenience enhances the overall user experience, making it easier to stay informed about your PC’s performance while on the go.
Moreover, Microsoft has improved the onboarding process, allowing users to set up the app directly on their Android phones without needing to involve their PCs. This streamlined setup makes it more accessible for new users to get started.
In addition to these features, the app enables users to send files to their PCs and mirror their phone screens onto their PC displays. This functionality is particularly useful for those who need to access recent files or clipboard items while away from their desks, ensuring that important tasks can be managed efficiently.
Microsoft notes that this new experience is being rolled out gradually, so users may not see the updates immediately. To take advantage of these features, users will need the latest Windows Insider Preview build on their PCs and Phone Link version 1.25062.83.0 or higher. For Android devices, the Link to Windows app must be version 1.25071.155 or higher.
