Microsoft has enhanced its Phone Link and Link to Windows apps with new file-sharing capabilities, extending their functionalities while offering a more seamless experience. In a way, it functions almost similarly to Apple’s AirDrop.
The new feature uses native sharing menus on each platform to streamline file transfers. Devices appear as nearby options in the share list, simplifying the transfer of files between them.
To share files between your PC and Android device, select the file on your PC, right-click, and choose “Share,” then select Phone Link from the share options to start the transfer. You can track its progress with Windows’ notifications enabled. For Android to PC, select the file, tap “Share,” choose Link to Windows – Send to PC, and select your connected PC to initiate the transfer. It will be marked as “Sent” confirming the file has been shared.
Users must have the latest versions of Phone Link (1.24032.156.0 or later) on Windows 10 or 11 and Link to Windows (1.24032.518.0 or higher) on Android to utilise the features. The hardware requirements include Windows 10 2019 update or later, while devices must have Android OS 9.0 and above.
In addition, Phone Link is now integrated in the Windows Start Menu under “Companions.” With this, users can now easily access messages, calls, and photos through only a couple of simple steps.
