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Should You Try Windows 11’s Android Link? The Honest Truth About Its Frustrating New Update
Windows 11 and Android devices now work together more closely, thanks to the updated Link to Windows app. The latest changes aim to help people move files, control their PC, and manage content simply from their phone. The new app, still in beta, brings a look and feel that’s much easier to use, plus a few tools that may make daily tech tasks less time-consuming.
What’s Changed in Link to Windows?
- Fresh app layout with a clear, friendly look.
- A laptop icon shows who’s signed in and gives a peek at your PC’s Wi-Fi and battery.
- Buttons let you lock your PC or send files straight from your phone.
- A handy panel shows what’s been copied to your clipboard and the files you’ve shared.
- Quick-access buttons show files received and your clipboard history, including images.
- An easy-to-find side menu lets you add new devices, set app preferences, and reaches Microsoft’s other apps.
These updates mean you can now lock your computer with your phone, send files with a tap, and even mirror your phone screen to your PC (this works for some devices only). For people who want everything in one place, this new design feels much less confusing.
How Well Does It Work?
Lock PC Feature
- You can lock a connected Windows PC by pressing a button in the app.
- Unlocking must still be done at the computer, which keeps things secure.
- Sometimes, the lock feature may seem buggy—sometimes it shows the PC is locked when it’s not, or struggles to connect, meaning you may need to check your Bluetooth settings to fix it.
Send Files Tool
- The send files button helps you send documents or pictures from your phone to your PC in seconds.
- You can pick files or even use your camera right from the app.
- Some delays happen, like waiting a few extra seconds for big files, but the process is smooth most of the time.
Screen Mirroring
- Some phones (mostly Samsung models for now) let you cast your screen to your Windows PC with a one-tap button.
- Not all users will see this option; it depends on your device and app version.
Set Up Steps for the New App
- You need to be in the Windows Insider program and have the newest updates on both your phone and PC.
- On your Android phone, join the beta for Link to Windows from the Play Store.
- Make sure both devices use the same Microsoft account.
- Go to your PC’s Bluetooth and Mobile Devices settings, allow device-to-device connections, and sign in if asked.
- If things don’t sync up at first, turning both devices off and on or signing in again helps.
Is It Simple for New Users?
Microsoft says it’s easier than before: the app now walks new users through sign-in and permissions only when needed. Still, some steps feel roundabout. Users often need to log in on both devices more than once, which can be confusing and time-consuming.
Where Could It Improve?
Compared to Lenovo’s Smart Connect, Microsoft’s app still feels limited:
- Lenovo syncs wallpaper and device look between phone and PC, making the experience seamless.
- Smart Connect works with or without the internet (using a USB cable), supports app streaming, and even lets you use your computer’s mouse on your phone.
- File sharing and “cross control” tools in Lenovo’s app are more reliable and don’t require repeated sign-ins.