Windows may have ditched Android apps, but now it wants to sync with them

Microsoft has taken a significant step in enhancing user experience with the expansion of its Cross-Device Resume feature on Windows 11. This latest update introduces support for popular applications such as Spotify, alongside the Office suite, which includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The goal is to create a more fluid transition between devices, particularly between smartphones and PCs.

Seamless Device Integration

Initially launched in May 2025, the Cross-Device Resume function aims to ensure that applications across various platforms work harmoniously. The newly confirmed list of supported applications may raise a few eyebrows, as it includes well-known names that already offer cloud syncing capabilities. For users of Samsung or Vivo smartphones, the integration promises to be particularly beneficial.

To utilize this feature, Android devices must be connected through the Link to Windows app. This connection allows users to access applications directly from their PC’s toolbar, enabling them to pick up right where they left off. While this functionality may draw comparisons to Apple’s Handoff feature, it is important to note that much of the underlying technology is already established.

  • Cross-Device Resume supports:
  • Spotify
  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint

For those seeking browser synchronization, Google Chrome already provides a similar capability, allowing users to open individual pages or entire tab groups from other devices. The controls for managing Cross-Device Resume can be found within the Settings menu of Windows 11, but it is essential for both devices to be connected to the internet for optimal functionality.

While the expansion of this feature indicates Microsoft’s commitment to improving user experience, its practical utility remains to be fully realized. The intention is to foster seamless interaction across devices, and only time will reveal how integral this feature becomes in everyday usage.

AppWizard
Windows may have ditched Android apps, but now it wants to sync with them