Microsoft’s Revamped Link to Windows App: A Comprehensive Overview
Microsoft has introduced a significant redesign of its Link to Windows app, currently available in beta for Android users. This update enhances user experience with new functionalities, allowing seamless remote access to your PC, direct file sharing from the app, and clipboard management between devices. The upgraded version is currently accessible to Windows Insiders across all channels, and initial tests from Windows Latest have provided feedback on its performance.
The app’s previous user interface was criticized for its inefficient layout, cluttered with links to outdated Microsoft applications, such as Skype. Despite receiving updates over time, many long-removed app links remained, hindering usability. In stark contrast, the new Link to Windows interface represents a much-improved user experience.
Microsoft aims for the updated Link to Windows app to serve as “a central place where you can access, share, and control content between your Android phone and Windows PC.” The new interface presents a prominent laptop icon along with the user’s name, although it does not align with the PC’s actual wallpaper. This section, termed “PC at a glance, ” provides real-time updates on the PC’s Wi-Fi status and battery life.
During testing on a Virtual Machine, battery status was not displayed, likely due to the simulated environment. While the Wi-Fi icon appeared, it was representative of an Ethernet connection due to the VM configuration.
Users will find two functional buttons: “Lock PC”and “Send files.”Although a third button was anticipated, its absence is noted. Furthermore, a “Recent”pane showcases clipboard history and recently shared files, enhancing the overall functionality of the app.
Additional features include dedicated buttons for accessing files received from the PC and a clipboard that contains all copied or cut items, including images.
The side pane offers further utility with options to connect a new PC, adjust app settings, and access Microsoft apps, albeit in a less conspicuous manner. Notably, the app highlights key actions such as locking the PC from a mobile device, direct file transfers, and phone screen mirroring from within the app.
Lock Your PC Remotely
For users with a stable connection under Bluetooth settings, the Link to Windows app allows you to lock your PC remotely. Simply tap the “Lock PC”button and acknowledge the warning that locking the PC will disconnect the app. Users must subsequently unlock the PC locally.
During testing, there were occasional discrepancies where the app indicated the PC was locked when it wasn’t connected. Additionally, error notifications about device connectivity prompted users to adjust their Bluetooth settings.
File Transfers Made Easy
If your PC maintains a full connection with Link to Windows, you can transfer files from your phone effortlessly. Clicking the “Send files”button reveals a panel containing recent images, direct camera access, a Photo Gallery, and document options.
In a hands-on experience, sending a random PDF file resulted in a brief loading period followed by a notification confirming successful receipt on the PC.
Screen Mirroring: An Exciting Feature with Limitations
While testing with a Motorola device running Android 15, the option to mirror the phone’s display to the PC was not visible in the app. However, promotional materials from Microsoft feature a “Cast to PC”button, suggesting potential screen mirroring capabilities that may be limited to specific device models, possibly only available for Samsung Galaxy phones.
How to Access the Updated Link to Windows
The new version of Link to Windows is not yet available for public release, and its general rollout has not been announced. Current users of Phone Link and Link to Windows may want to wait for broader availability for optimized functionality. However, eager users interested in the beta can follow these steps:
- Join the Windows Insider program and update your PC to the latest Preview build (version 1.25062.83.0 or higher).
- On your Android device, search for Link to Windows in the Play Store and opt into the beta program.
- After joining the beta, update to version 1.25071.155 or higher to access the new features.
Initial experiences may vary; some users reported seeing the old interface for hours before the new version appeared after a restart. Additionally, confirming that both devices are properly signed in to the same Microsoft account may require multiple attempts.
Navigate to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices, and enable the option “Allow this PC to access your mobile devices.”Once this is activated, the “Manage devices” button should be accessible, where you will need to log in with your Microsoft account.
After some waiting, restarting the PC and phone may expedite the setup process, resulting in a smoother integration of features.
Streamlined Onboarding for New Users
Microsoft aims to provide a smoother onboarding experience for new users of Link to Windows, allowing account sign-ins without needing direct PC access. The setup process has been simplified with contextual prompts for permissions appearing only when required.
A Call for Improvement
Despite Microsoft’s vast resources, there are noticeable shortcomings in the Link to Windows experience compared to competitors like Lenovo’s Smart Connect. The latter provides a more cohesive PC ecosystem, including features like synchronized wallpapers and offline functionalities through USB connectivity. Smart Connect also offers features like app streaming and the innovative Cross Control capability, which allows users to utilize the same mouse across both devices.
While collaboration between Motorola and Lenovo has evidently enhanced their integration, Microsoft’s experience with Android devices through initiatives like the Surface Duo remains unfulfilled. Continued enhancements in Link to Windows could bridge the gap for a more intuitive cross-platform experience.
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