How to Make Calls on Windows 11 with Phone Link
This guide shows you how to make and take phone calls on your Windows 11 computer using the Microsoft Phone Link app. Calls go through your phone’s mobile plan. The PC works as a speaker and microphone, so you can talk without picking up the phone.
To make calls on Windows 11, open the Phone Link app, click the Calls tab, and use the search bar or dial pad to pick a number. Click the Dial icon and the call runs over your phone’s mobile plan, with audio through your PC. First pair the phone by scanning the QR code, using the same Microsoft Account on both devices, and allowing call permissions.
How to Set Up Phone Link
Setting up Phone Link on Windows 11 connects your phone to your PC. Once connected, you can make calls, send texts, and see notifications right from your computer, which makes it much easier to manage your communication. Phone Link is built into Windows 11, so there is nothing to install on the PC. The phone needs a companion app. Before you start, keep your phone nearby and unlocked, and make sure Bluetooth is on for both devices. Calls rely on Bluetooth .
- Download the Link to Windows app from the Google Play Store on your Android phone. You should see the app installed on the phone when the download finishes.
- Open the Phone Link app on your Windows 11 PC. Search for Phone Link in the Start menu if you can’t find it. If the app asks you to choose a phone type, pick Android.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code using your phone. The PC shows the QR code, and the phone’s camera reads it. Once the code is accepted, the phone shows a confirmation message.
- Sign in with the same Microsoft Account on both devices. If the accounts don’t match, the pairing will fail or stall.
- Grant the necessary permissions for contacts, messages, and calls. Tap Allow on each prompt on the phone. If you refuse the call permission, the Calls tab won’t work. You can turn it back on later in your phone’s app permission settings.
Making and Receiving Calls
Make sure your PC has a working microphone and speakers. Laptops have these built in. A desktop may need a headset or USB speakers and a microphone. Your PC also needs Bluetooth . Most laptops have it, but many desktops don’t, so a cheap USB Bluetooth adapter may be needed. If Phone Link asks you to pair over Bluetooth, confirm the code on both screens. The phone then shows your PC as a connected device.
How to Make a Call
- Open the Phone Link app. The main window shows your phone’s name at the top and tabs along the side.
- Click the Calls tab. If you see a setup button here, click it and finish the Bluetooth pairing first. After that, the tab shows your recent calls and a dial pad.
- Use the search bar to find a contact or use the dial pad to enter a number. Contacts appear as you type.
- Click the Dial icon. The call starts on your phone’s network, and the audio plays through your PC.
Windows 11 Phone Link app interface for making calls
How to Receive a Call
When someone calls you, a notification appears on your Windows 11 desktop. You can click Accept or Decline directly from the notification banner. If you don't see the banner, check that Windows notifications and Focus assist (do not disturb) aren't hiding it. Also check that Phone Link notifications are allowed on the phone.
Advanced Features
Beyond calls, Phone Link offers cross-device productivity. You can sync your clipboard to copy and paste text between devices, manage mobile notifications, and even use Instant Hotspot to share your phone's internet connection. You can also sync your Do Not Disturb settings to keep your focus sharp. Some of these features depend on your phone model and Android version, so you may not see all of them on every device.
Troubleshooting
If calls still don't work, try these checks:
- Confirm you are signed in with the same Microsoft Account on the PC and the phone.
- Check that the phone's Link to Windows app has the contacts, messages and call permissions it needs.
- Turn Bluetooth off and on again on both devices.
- Restart the Phone Link app, then the PC if the problem remains.
Summary
Phone Link for Windows 11 is a handy tool that helps you get more done by connecting your phone to your PC. Once it is set up, you can make and answer calls without leaving your desk or reaching for the phone.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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