Windows 11 Launches Full-Screen Android Apps Mirroring for All Users via Phone Link App with Compatible Devices

Stream Android Apps on Windows 11 with Expanded Screen Feature

The Microsoft Phone Link app has recently introduced a feature called “Expanded screen, ”which allows users to utilize up to 90% of their desktop space when streaming Android apps on Windows 11. This enhancement is now accessible to all users. If you don’t see this option available, it is advisable to update your app through the Microsoft Store. If it still doesn’t appear, the rollout may be ongoing for your specific account.

Advancements in Phone Link App

Previously, the Phone Link app enabled Android app streaming only with a compact mirroring feature, which restricted how much screen space you could use. With the new “Expanded screen”capability, users can now enjoy a more immersive experience by broadcasting Android applications across their desktop interface.

How “Expanded Screen”Works

Upon launching an Android app via Phone Link, users will be prompted to utilize the Expanded screen feature, allowing for a larger display area. This feature has been tested extensively with Windows Insiders before its public release.

Expanded screen support for Android apps streaming

The expanded functionality isn’t a brand new user interface for Windows. Instead, it instructs your phone to reinitiate the chosen Android app in a wider format, which is then streamed directly to your computer.

Android app running full screen on Windows 11

Considerations and Limitations

Microsoft cautions that some applications may require a restart to effectively switch to the expanded layout, while others might not support this feature altogether. This operational change mirrors typical behavior on Android where certain applications must reload for layout adjustments. The method resembles “tablet-style”functionality, but essentially, Microsoft directs Android to render larger configurations for desktop streaming.

It’s worth noting that the streaming experience isn’t entirely full-screen, as approximately 10% of the desktop remains unutilized. Users are hopeful that Microsoft might find a solution to this minor limitation, especially given Android’s open-source nature.

However, some applications, such as WhatsApp, may not perform optimally in this expanded format, leading to visual issues when streamed in full-screen mode:

Whatsapp android app on desktop via Phone Link

Troubleshooting Missing App Streaming Features

If the “Apps” section is missing in your Phone Link application, it may be due to your device not being part of the supported hardware list. The streaming capability is operational on select devices from brands such as Samsung, HONOR, OPPO, ASUS, vivo, and Xiaomi, which have Link to Windows pre-installed.

According to a support document by Microsoft, devices like Galaxy Fold, Note20 5G/Ultra, S22, S23, S24+, in addition to models from HONOR, OnePlus, and more, are included.

Devices running Android 11 or later may also gain access to the multiple apps experience, enhancing usage flexibility.

Alongside this new full-screen streaming feature, Microsoft has recently introduced additional functionalities, such as the ability to lock your PC remotely from your Android devices.

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