Windows 11 users can now mirror their Samsung phone on their desktop, thanks to Microsoft's Phone Link app. This feature, which is built into Windows 11, allows users to access their Android apps on a larger screen, complete with mouse and keyboard support.
The Phone Link app, which is available on the Start menu, enables users to sync their calls, photos, and contacts from their phone to their desktop operating system. While many Phone Link features work with any Android phone or iPhone, the app mirroring capability is only supported by a select number of handsets, including recent Samsung Galaxy phones, as well as some devices from OnePlus and Asus.
Microsoft is continually expanding support for this feature, so even if it doesn't work with your current Android phone, it's worth checking back periodically to see if anything has changed. The benefits of using Phone Link are clear: users can enjoy a more immersive experience, with the ability to use their apps on a bigger screen, complete with mouse and keyboard input.
To set up Phone Link, users need to launch the app on their Windows computer and select Android as their mobile device. They will then be prompted to scan a QR code displayed by Windows using their Android device's camera, which will open the Phone Link Android app on their phone. After signing in to the same Microsoft account used on Windows, users will be asked to grant various permissions, including access to SMS messages, phone calls, contacts, and more.
Once set up, users can access their phone's apps on Windows, with the option to either mirror their phone screen or launch apps individually in the background. The Phone Link app on Windows provides a range of features, including the ability to configure which parts of the phone Windows has access to, as well as access to messages, photos, and calls.
When using Phone Link, users can interact with their apps in a natural way, with support for single taps, tap-and-hold gestures, and scrolling. Audio playing on the phone will also be routed through the Windows PC. Users can customize their experience by clicking the gear icon in the top-right corner of the Phone Link app on Windows.
This feature is a significant development for Windows 11 users, offering a more seamless experience between their desktop and mobile devices. As Microsoft continues to expand support for Phone Link, it's likely that we'll see even more innovative features emerge in the future.
For more information on how to use Phone Link, including step-by-step setup instructions and tips for getting the most out of the feature, read the full guide on Microsoft's website.