This article explains how to download, set up, and use Microsoft's Phone Link, which connects your Android phone and computer to share calls, texts, photos, and more.
How to Download the Microsoft Phone Link App
To get started, you need to install an app on your phone and an app on your computer.
On your Android, download the Link to Windows app from the Google Play Store.
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Follow the instructions in the app. In a web browser on your computer, go to www.aka.ms/phonelinkQRC and scan the QR code that pops up.
The Phone Link app should open automatically on your computer when you go to the website. If it doesn't, download the Phone Link app from the Microsoft Store.
Link your phone and PC, www.aka.ms/phonelinkQRC, and Continue in the Link to Windows app
Tap View Permissions and enable the permissions the app requests (Phone, SMS, Contacts, and Storage). When you're done, your phone will be connected to your PC.
View Permission, permissions to enable, and Allow highlighted in the Link to Windows app
How to Use Microsoft Phone Link
Now that everything is set up, you'll be able to make and receive phone calls, get notifications, receive and reply to texts, and even drag and drop photos from your phone to your computer.
Messages, Calls, and Photos in Windows Phone Link
Plus, it comes with an added bonus. When you are surfing the web on your phone in any browser, you can move that web page over to your computer. Simply tap Share > Continue on PC, then select the PC to which you want to send (if you have more than one set up). That web page will open on your computer's web browser. You can even push a notification to open the web page later if you want.
Share icon, Link to Windows app, and Tap to send highlighted in Chrome for Android
What Is Microsoft's Phone Link App?
This set of apps—one for your computer and one for your phone—brings calling, texting, photos, notifications, and other neat tricks to your computer.
Your Android phone is your hub for communications and photography, so it makes sense that Microsoft would want to tap into those functions. Your Phone uses a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to transfer text messages, photos, and incoming notifications to your computer. It also supports incoming and outgoing phone calls. Everything is done locally. There is no cloud sync. There are no privacy issues and this complies with GDPR regulations in Europe.
Is Phone Link the same as Link to Windows?
No, but they are related. Link to Windows (formerly called Your Phone Companion) is the mobile companion app for Microsoft Phone Link (formerly called the Your Phone app).
How do I turn off Windows Phone Link?
To turn off Microsoft Phone Link, open the Link to Windows mobile app and tap the Settings gear, then tap Sign out of Link to Windows > Unlink.
Can I uninstall Windows Phone Link?
No. Windows doesn't allow you to uninstall Phone Link, but you can disable it with Windows PowerShell.