Hello Windows Insiders,
We are pleased to announce the rollout of an update for the Link to Windows app, tailored specifically for our Windows Insiders. This update introduces a modernized design, enhanced onboarding process, and innovative features that allow users to access content and remotely manage their PCs directly from their Android devices. Notably, one of the standout capabilities is the option to lock your PC remotely. As this experience is gradually being deployed, please be aware that not all Insiders will have immediate access.
Whether you are a seasoned user of Link to Windows and Phone Link or just embarking on this journey, this update aims to create a more seamless, intuitive, and powerful cross-device experience.
A new home for connected experiences
The Link to Windows app has been reimagined as a connected PC experience hub. This central platform enables users to access, share, and control content between their Android phones and Windows PCs effortlessly. Key features include:
- Recent activity: Quickly view your most recently received files and clipboard items from your PC.
- PC at a glance: Monitor your PC’s battery and Wi-Fi status directly from your phone.
- Remote actions from Link to Windows:
- Send files to your PC seamlessly from within the app.
- Lock your PC remotely when it is connected.
- Mirror your phone’s screen to your PC for enhanced usability.
More intuitive onboarding for getting started
The onboarding experience has been revamped to allow users to set up Link to Windows directly from their Android devices, eliminating the need for a PC to get started. This enhancement enables users to quickly discover the benefits of connected experiences, featuring contextual permission prompts and simplified setup instructions that guide them through the process when they reach their PC. These improvements are designed to provide greater control and flexibility, particularly when users are away from their desks.
How to try out the refreshed Link to Windows experience on your Android phone
Windows Insiders can explore the new refreshed Link to Windows experience on their Android phones by following these steps:
- Ensure you are running the latest Windows Insider Preview build on your PC from any Insider Channel and that the Phone Link version is 1.25062.83.0 or higher.
- Opt-in to the Link to Windows Beta from the Play Store.
- Update the Link to Windows app from the Play Store to ensure the version is 1.25071.155 or higher.
- Pair your Android phone with your PC using Link to Windows on your phone and Phone Link on your PC.
- Finally, navigate to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices > Manage devices, ensuring you are logged in with the same Microsoft account as Link to Windows and that your Android phone is listed and enabled.
Give feedback
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences as you explore the refreshed Link to Windows experience:
- Provide feedback directly from Link to Windows on your Android phone via Phone > Give Feedback > Link to Windows.
- Alternatively, use the Feedback Hub to submit feedback under Devices and Drivers > Linked devices.
Thank you,
Phone Link & Cross-Device Experiences Team
