How to Access Phone Link Recent Apps from your Windows 11
You can access your phone’s recent apps directly from your Windows 11 PC through Microsoft’s Phone Link app.
Phone Link allows you to see and interact with your most recently used Android applications on your computer, effectively mirroring them for easier access and control with your mouse and keyboard.
This feature is particularly useful for multitasking. Imagine replying to messages or checking social media directly on your PC without needing to unlock and pick up your phone, streamlining your workflow.
To get started, ensure your Android phone is linked to your Windows 11 PC via Phone Link. You’ll also need to specifically enable the “Recent apps” functionality within the Phone Link app’s settings on both your phone and 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, and it’s simpler than you might think.
- 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.
Important Note: Be careful about the permissions you give. Phone Link needs access to your calls, messages, photos, and apps to work. Read them closely and make sure you are okay with what you are allowing.
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
You can open your phone’s recent apps directly from your Windows taskbar using the Phone Link icon, saving you time and steps.
- 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 easily from the taskbar.
Can I see what apps were recently used on my phone?
And here we have to go to data and privacy. And here if we scroll down we will have this view my activity. Option. And we can usually see the list of applications. Here which we opened.
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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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