How to access Recent Apps from the Phone Link in Windows 11

Why Use Phone Link for Recent Apps?

Imagine you’re working on your computer and need to check something on your phone, like a text message or a note. Instead of picking up your phone, you can open your recent apps right from your PC. This saves you time and keeps you focused on your work.

What Happens When You Access Recent Apps?

When you access your recent apps through Phone Link, they open in their own windows on your PC. You can use them like you would on your phone, which makes multitasking between your computer and your phone’s applications much smoother.

Method 1Using the Phone Link Icon 🖥️ on the Taskbar

Step 1Find the Phone Link Icon

First, find the Phone Link icon on your Windows taskbar. It’s usually near the clock and date. If you don’t see it, click the small upward-pointing arrow (^) to reveal hidden icons.

• Click the upward-pointing arrow (^) on 🖥️ your taskbar.
• Look for the Phone Link icon. It often looks like a phone and a computer connected.

Step 2Open the Phone Link Menu

Click the Phone Link icon. A small menu will appear, showing you options for your linked phone.

Step 3Choose Your App

In the menu, you’ll find a section for your recently used apps. These are apps you opened lately on your phone.

• Single Click: Click the app icon you want to open. The app will open in its own window on your PC.
• Right-Click: You can also right-click the app icon. A small menu will show up, and you can choose “Open.”

Method 2Using the Phone Link App

Step 1Open the Phone Link Application

If the Phone Link app isn’t already open, find it from your ⊞ Start menu by searching for “Phone Link.” This app helps you manage your phone’s connection to your PC.

Step 2Go to the “Apps” Section

Inside the Phone Link app, navigate to and click on the “Apps” section or tab. This is where you can see and use your phone’s apps on your PC.

Step 3Find the “Recently Used” Area

At the top of the “Apps” page, look for the “Recently used” section. It displays up to three of your most recent apps from your phone, perfect for quickly getting back to what you were doing.

Step 4Select Your App

As before, you can open an app in two ways:

• Click to Launch: Click the app icon to open it in a new window on your PC.
• Right-Click for Options: Right-click the app icon and choose “Open” from the menu.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/use-apps-from-your-android-device-on-your-pc-07d3d029-236e-e71f-3561-d40d7491d435

Summary

With the Phone Link app in Windows 11, you can access your most-used phone apps right from your PC. You can do this quickly using 🖥️ the taskbar icon or by opening the full Phone Link application. This handy feature saves you time and keeps you productive by putting your essential phone apps within easy reach on your computer.