On December 8, Microsoft initiated a significant upgrade for the “Link to Windows”app on Android, introducing version 1.25102.140.0. This update enhances user experience by enabling functionalities such as remote computer locking, seamless file transfer between Android devices and Windows 11 PCs, and improved clipboard sharing. This development was first highlighted by Windows Latest earlier this week.
Exploring the Enhanced Link to Windows Functionality
The Link to Windows feature has existed for approximately ten years, with notable integration in various Android devices, particularly those manufactured by Samsung.
Historically, the interface has been relatively basic, providing only the ability to connect or disconnect from PCs, with no control over Windows directly through Link to Windows. However, significant changes have been introduced with the latest update, as users can now manage additional settings directly from their mobile devices.
This new experience does not require users to be part of the Windows Insider Program or download beta versions, as the update is available to all users.
Monitor Your PC’s Battery and Network Strength
One of the standout features of version 1.25102.140.0 allows users to monitor their connected laptop’s battery level and network strength directly from their Android device. The battery level syncs almost every minute, offering real-time updates. However, it’s worth noting that advanced features like managing volume or Bluetooth settings are not yet available, although they may be introduced in the future.
Introducing a New “Recent Activity” Section
A notable addition is the “Recent Activity”section in the Link to Windows app, which displays all recent actions taken. For instance, files sent to your PC via the new “Send files” feature will be listed here, as well as files shared from File Explorer on Windows 11.
This section is not limited to files, as clipboard items copied on your PC will also sync and appear within the app.
Remote PC Locking Made Easy
The update introduces a “Lock PC” option, allowing users to secure their computers remotely as long as the devices are connected. Upon activating this feature, a warning message informs the user that the devices will be disconnected, but it doesn’t hinder the locking process. Tests by Windows Latest have shown this operation is executed in under three seconds, which is impressively swift.
Unlocking the PC will automatically reconnect to the Android device, making it a useful feature for users who frequently step away from their computers.
Seamless File Transfers Between Devices
With the latest update, sending files from an Android phone to a PC is now possible, enhancing the user experience on par with various wireless transfer technologies like Google Nearby. Performance-testing showed decent transfer speeds, which will vary based on the user’s internet connection.
To initiate a file transfer, simply select “Send files, ” choose from your gallery or file manager, or even capture a new image. One test included transferring a 3MB image to the PC, which was completed in less than a minute under a 500 Mbps internet connection. Users will receive notifications regarding transferred files, with options to open them in the appropriate applications.
While sending files to your phone from the PC isn’t entirely new, what has changed is that those files will now be easily accessible on the homepage of the Link to Windows app, streamlining the process of locating them.
Cross-Device Clipboard Sharing
Another significant enhancement is the introduction of cross-device clipboard functionality, which allows users to copy content from their PC directly to their Android device. This includes all copied items, such as images or screenshots taken on Windows 11, which can be accessed via the phone’s clipboard.
Enabling this feature is simple; just navigate to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Mobile Devices > Managed Devices. Once in place, any item copied on Windows will automatically sync to the mobile device’s clipboard, removing the need to manually open the app for clipboard access. The app also maintains a history of copied items.
Users can easily delete synced items or share them through popular applications like WhatsApp or Telegram.
Simplified Screen Mirroring
Previously, users needed to navigate through the Phone Link app for screen mirroring from Android to Windows 11. Now, a new “Mirror to PC” toggle allows quick activation directly in the Link to Windows app.
This feature retains the current mirroring experience, but now users can enable it from their device without navigating complex menus.
Additionally, Microsoft is testing a new “Expanded” mode for screen mirroring, which provides a larger viewing area for supported apps, enhancing usability for those utilizing apps optimized for tablet displays.
A Shift in Microsoft’s Approach to Device Integration
This upgrade suggests that Microsoft is progressively moving towards a less restrictive “Phone Link-only” experience on Windows 11. The emphasis appears to be on creating a more interactive and multifunctional connection between your phone and PC, allowing mobile management over PC functions.
While the Phone Link app remains relevant, it appears to be evolving as Microsoft reduces its dependency on it for specific features, integrated into overall Windows functionality. This represents a strategic move towards a more fluid user experience that places additional control in users’ hands.
Users can begin experiencing the new features in Link to Windows with version 1.25102.140.0, which is compatible with Windows 11 versions 24H2 or 25H2.
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