How to Enable or Disable Phone Link in Windows 11
Phone Link lets you connect your Android phone or iPhone to a Windows 11 computer so you can make calls, read text messages, and check app notifications right on your desktop.
This built-in Windows tool—previously known as “Your Phone”—removes the need to pick up your mobile device for everyday tasks like copying recent photos or replying to texts.
You need a compatible smartphone running Android 7.0 or later, or iOS 14 or later, paired with a Windows 11 PC using Bluetooth to get started.
Open Windows Settings , go to Bluetooth & devices, then Mobile devices. Select the Phone Link tile and use the switch to turn it On or Off.
Prerequisites for Phone Link
Phone Link Windows 11 requirements include running Windows 11 on your computer and Android 9.0 or later on your phone. You also need the Link to Windows app installed, both devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and the same Microsoft Account signed in on both your PC and your phone.
- A PC running Windows 11.
- An Android device running Android 9.0 or later.
- The Link to Windows app installed on your phone.
- Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- You must be signed into the same Microsoft Account on both devices.
How to Set Up Phone Link
Setting up Phone Link in Windows 11 lets you connect your phone to your computer to view texts, photos, and calls right on your desktop. To get started, open the Phone Link app on your PC, select your phone type, and follow the on-screen steps to scan the QR code.
What happens when done? Your phone and PC will pair, allowing you to see your messages, photos, and apps directly on your desktop.
- Open the Phone Link app on your PC.
- Select your device type (Android).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code pairing display with your phone.
- Grant the necessary permissions on your phone to allow the app to access your contacts, messages, and photos.
Enable or Disable Phone Link in Windows Settings
You can manage this feature through the Settings app.
- Open the Windows Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
- Click on Bluetooth & devices on the left.
- Click the Mobile devices tile.
- Select the Phone Link tile and use the switch to turn it On or Off.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
If your devices won't connect, try these steps:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
- Check that 'Focus Assist' or 'Do Not Disturb' is not blocking notifications.
- Restart both your phone and your PC.
- Update the Link to Windows app from the Google Play Store.
Advanced Configuration (Admin Required)
ADMIN PRIVILEGES REQUIRED: To manage these settings for all user accounts, use the Local Group Policy Editor or the Registry Editor (a database of low-level system settings).
Registry Path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Mobility
Summary
Phone Link Windows 11 is a built-in feature that connects your smartphone to your computer so you can check texts, calls, and notifications without picking up your device. You can turn off Phone Link at any time if you want better privacy or fewer distractions while working on your PC.- What is it? A feature to sync your Android or iPhone with your PC.
- Why turn it off? To improve privacy or reduce distractions.
- What happens? Your PC stops syncing data and notifications from your mobile device.
- How to do it: Use the Settings app for a simple toggle, or use advanced editors for system-wide control.
Why do I need to grant permissions to Phone Link?
Permissions are needed so the app can securely access your phone's data, like text messages, photos, and notifications. Without them, the app can't show your mobile content on your PC or let you use your phone's apps from your computer.
Does Phone Link work with iPhone?
Yes, Phone Link offers basic integration for iPhone. You can sync iMessage, calls, and notifications. The experience is more limited compared to Android, however, as features like app streaming and deep photo gallery integration are currently exclusive to specific Android devices and the Link to Windows app.
Can I use Phone Link on multiple PCs?
Connecting your phone to more than one PC using Phone Link with the same Microsoft account is possible.
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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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