How to Add Phone Link to Windows 11 Start Menu

This guide explains how to add or remove the Phone Link feature from your Windows 11 Start menu.

The Phone Link app is a tool that lets you link your phone and PC using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to see your phone’s apps and data on your computer. It allows you to text, check photos, and see notifications on your big screen while your phone stays in your pocket.

As of 2026, you can link your phone directly to the Start menu. This keeps your mobile device just a click away.

Requirements

• Windows 11 (stable release or newer).
• Phone Link version 1.24073.500.0 or higher.

Add or Remove Phone Link from the Start Menu

Why do this? It saves you time by letting you check your phone status without opening a separate app.

1. Open the Settings app by clicking the Start menu or pressing the Windows key + I.

2. Select Personalization from the left-hand menu.

3. Click on the Start option on the right side.

4. Look for Show mobile device in Start and toggle the switch to On or Off.

What happens when you turn this on? Your phone appears as a shortcut in your Start menu, giving you instant access to your apps and notifications.

Using the Windows Registry (Advanced)

Why use the registry? It gives you deeper control over your system settings. Note: This method requires admin privileges.

1. Open the Windows Registry by searching for it in the Start menu.

2. Navigate to this path:

Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Start\Companions\Microsoft.YourPhone_8wekyb3d8bbwe

3. Find the IsEnabled value on the right side. If you do not see it, right-click, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it IsEnabled.

4. Double-click IsEnabled and change the value to 1 to turn it on, or 0 to turn it off.

Warning: Editing the registry can be risky. Back up your computer before making changes.

5. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Summary

Adding Phone Link to your Start menu makes your phone and computer work together more efficiently. You can manage this setting through the standard Windows Settings menu or the Registry Editor. By following these steps, you can keep your mobile notifications and apps within reach at all times. If you run into trouble, ensure your Windows and Phone Link app are both fully updated.

Reference: Microsoft.com