How to Access Phone Link Recent Apps from your Windows 11
Phone Link’s Recent Apps feature lets you see and use your phone’s most recently opened apps directly on your Windows 11 PC.
This tool mirrors apps from your Android phone, allowing you to control them with your mouse and keyboard. It’s built into the Phone Link app that comes with Windows 11.
This makes it easier to switch between tasks, like replying to a text or checking social media without grabbing your phone. You can access these recent apps right from your computer screen.
To use it, ensure your phone is connected to your PC using Phone Link. You then need to turn on the “Recent apps” option in both the Phone Link app on your phone and the app on your PC.
Access recent Android apps from your Windows 11 taskbar by clicking the upward-pointing arrow in the bottom right corner to show hidden icons. Then, click the Phone Link icon and select the app you wish to open from the pop-up menu.
Why Use Your Phone Apps on Your PC?
Using your phone apps on your PC with Phone Link lets you get more done without switching devices.
How to Connect Your Phone and PC
Connecting your phone to your Windows 11 PC lets you use your phone’s apps right on your computer. Open Phone Link on your PC by searching for it in the Windows search bar. On your phone, open the Link to Windows app. You can then scan a QR code from your PC or sign in using your Microsoft account on both devices.
- Open Phone Link on your PC. You can find it by typing “Phone Link” into the Windows search bar.
- Open Link to Windows on your phone. You might need to scan a QR code shown on your PC. Or, you can sign in with your Microsoft account on both devices.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. The apps will guide you through the rest. You’ll need to allow certain permissions on your phone.
Phone Link requires specific permissions for calls, messages, photos, and apps. You’ll need to review and approve each request to grant access.
How to Open Your Android Apps on Your PC
Once your devices are connected, opening your Android apps is possible. Here are a couple of ways to do it:
Using the Windows Taskbar
Accessing your phone’s recent apps from the Windows taskbar is quick using the Phone Link icon. First, look for the hidden icons area in the bottom right corner of your taskbar and click the small upward arrow. Among the icons that appear, find and click the Phone Link icon to see your recent apps.
- Look for the hidden icons. In the bottom right corner of your Windows taskbar, click the small upward-pointing arrow (
^). This shows hidden icons. - Find the Phone Link icon. You should see the Phone Link icon among the hidden icons. Click on it.
- Choose your app. A small menu will pop up. It shows some of your recent Android apps. You can:
- Click directly on the app you want to open.
- Right-click on the app and then choose “Open.”
Handy Tip: This “Recent Apps” section is great for quickly going back to what you were doing. If you use an app often, you can pin it for even faster access.
What Happens When You Open an App?
When you open a phone app from your PC, it appears in its own window, letting you use it with your mouse and keyboard.
Reference:
Summary
Phone Link lets you use your phone’s apps on your Windows 11 PC, and you can access recent apps from the taskbar.
Can I see what apps were recently used on my phone?
The section about ‘view my activity’ seems unrelated to accessing recent apps via Phone Link and may confuse readers.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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