How to Switch Between Compact and Expanded View using Phone Link on Windows 11
Phone Link’s view settings on Windows 11 let you switch between a compact and expanded layout for your Android apps.
The compact view shows your apps in a smaller, single-panel window. The expanded view offers a larger, multi-panel layout, displaying more details at once.
This changes automatically when you adjust the size of the Phone Link window on your PC.
You can use the expanded view when you need to see more information clearly, or switch to the compact view to save space on your screen.
In the Phone Link app, click the “Expanded screen” button at the top right to see more detail. Click the “Compact screen” button to save screen space. You can also simply resize the app window.
Why use this feature?
Considering the different views can be helpful. Sometimes a small app window is tough to read, and other times you just want to save screen space. Switching layouts lets you decide the best way for your phone apps to fit on your computer desktop.
What happens when done?
Switching the Phone Link app between compact and expanded view changes how your Android apps appear on your Windows PC. This means you can adjust the app window size to fit more or less of your screen. This feature requires Phone Link version 1.25091.
With the Phone Link app on your PC linked to your phone, you can use your Android apps on your computer. This works over Wi-Fi and lets you chat, shop, and play using your big screen.
These layout options require Phone Link version 1.25091.39.0 or higher.
How to change the view
- While in the Phone Link app on Windows PC, open an Android app. You can find these in your Start menu, taskbar, or the Phone Link app.
You can change how your Android apps look in the Phone Link app on your Windows PC. First, open an app from your Start menu, taskbar, or the Phone Link app itself. Then, look at the top of the app window to find the button to change the view.
- Look at the top of the app window.
- Click the Expanded screen button on the right side.
- If a box pops up, click Switch to confirm.
To proceed with view changes in Phone Link on Windows 11, you’ll need to click ‘Switch’ in the confirmation box. You can select ‘Don’t ask again’ to skip this confirmation for future view changes. To return to the previous view, click the Back button.
To use the Compact view:
- Look at the top of the app window.
- Click the Compact screen button on the right side.
- If a box pops up, click Switch to confirm.
Summary
You can switch between a small and larger window for your Android apps using the buttons in the app’s top bar. Pick the size that works best for your needs. No special admin rights are required to perform these steps.
How to use Phone Link to display phone screen?
To display your phone screen, open the Phone Link app on your Windows 11 PC and ensure your Android device is linked. Navigate to the Apps section within the app, select the mobile app you wish to open, and it will launch in a window directly on your computer desktop.
How to mirror phone screen with Phone Link?
Mirroring your phone screen with the Phone Link app on Windows 11 is quite direct; after connecting your devices, click the phone icon in the app’s menu to see a live view of your Android device.
How do I extend the screen on Windows to my phone?
Phone Link doesn’t let you extend your Windows computer screen to your phone. Instead, it focuses on letting you stream and control individual Android apps or your whole phone interface on your PC, with options to switch between compact and expanded views for better usability.
How to control phone screen with Phone Link?
You can control your phone screen using your PC’s mouse and keyboard once your Android device is connected through the Phone Link app. Just open the Phone Screen feature or launch specific apps from the Phone Link interface to start using your mobile content right on your Windows desktop.
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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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