What you need to know
As anticipation builds for the release of One UI 6.1.1, Samsung has made noteworthy enhancements to its app mirroring capabilities on Android. This development is particularly significant for users who rely on seamless connectivity between their mobile devices and computers.
- Samsung has streamlined the user experience by eliminating the repetitive approval process previously required for Link to Windows to mirror apps on a computer.
- Currently, only Samsung’s latest foldable devices are equipped with One UI 6.1.1, while the broader Galaxy lineup awaits this major AI update.
The partnership between Windows and Android has long facilitated a smooth app streaming experience, but Samsung is taking this relationship to new heights. A recent analysis by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority highlights that the One UI 6.1.1 software significantly enhances app streaming capabilities. Previously, users had to grant permission each time they wanted to stream an app from their Android device to their computer. However, Samsung has cleverly integrated these necessary permissions into Android’s dedicated framework.
Users can now navigate to the “Link to Windows” permission page, where they can choose to allow mirroring “always,” “only this time,” or “don’t allow.” By selecting “always allow,” the tedious prompt for permissions is eliminated, provided that the Android device remains powered on and unlocked.
This adjustment alleviates the previous burden of constant approvals, enhancing user convenience. Notably, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Fold 6 are the only devices currently benefiting from this upgraded functionality, as they are the first to feature the new software.
In parallel, Microsoft has undertaken a significant overhaul of its Phone Link application, rebranding it from “Your Phone.” This revamp provides users with a more polished interface to manage their phone’s notifications and messages directly from their computer. The new sidebar design promotes an intuitive experience, particularly when handling incoming alerts. This update followed closely on the heels of Windows 11’s launch, which introduced additional user interface enhancements.
While Samsung’s latest foldables enjoy the advantages of One UI 6.1.1, the rest of the Galaxy series remains in anticipation. Speculation suggested a rollout before summer, yet as August progresses, clarity on the timeline remains elusive. Users eagerly await the arrival of this software, which promises a suite of AI enhancements, including innovative camera features like Portrait Studio and Sketch to Image, as confirmed by Samsung on its community forum. Furthermore, the extensive capabilities of One UI 6.1.1 have reportedly delayed the introduction of One UI 7 (Android 15) in both beta and stable versions.
