Microsoft has unveiled a new feature for Windows 11 that will let iPhone users link their phones to their Windows PCs and access various features from their devices. The feature, let’s call it Phone Link for iPhones, is currently only available for preview under the Windows Insiders program.
According to Microsoft, Phone Link works by installing a companion app on the iPhone that connects to the PC via Bluetooth. Once paired, users can see their phone’s notifications on their PC’s Action Center and manage them from there. They can also reply to text messages using the Phone Link app on their PC, which syncs with the Messages app on their iPhone. But it should be noted that Phone Link for iPhones does not support replying to group messages or sending media in messages.
However, it is not clear when Phone Link for iPhones will be available for all Windows 11 users or what other features it will offer. Microsoft says it is working on adding more functionality to Phone Link over time. For example, in Phone Link for Android phones, users can drag and drop photos from their phone to their PC using File Explorer or other apps.
Phone Link is one of the many new features that Microsoft has introduced with Windows 11, which launched in October 2021. The new operating system also features a redesigned Start menu that centers icons and shows recommended files and apps; a new Microsoft Store that offers more apps and games, including Android apps via the Amazon App Store; support for widgets that display personalized information; improved performance and security; and more.
Windows Insiders can try out Phone Link for iPhones by updating the Phone Link app to version 1.23012.169.0 or higher. To join Windows Insiders, users need to sign up with a Microsoft account and opt-in for preview builds in Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Users should be aware that preview builds may have bugs or issues that affect their devices.
Phone Link is similar to Apple’s Continuity system, which lets users seamlessly switch between their Macs and iPhones. Continuity supports features like making phone calls, sending SMS messages, using apps like Safari or Notes, copying and pasting content, unlocking devices with Apple Watch, and more. However, Phone Link for iPhones does not support these features yet.
Phone Link is aimed at making it easier for both Android and iPhone users to work across their devices without having to switch back and forth between them. It also shows Microsoft’s efforts to make Windows 11 more compatible with different platforms and ecosystems. Whether Phone Link will be useful or popular among iPhone users remains to be seen.
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