Yes—Windows 11 can connect to selected Android phones and iPhones through Microsoft Phone Link. Depending on the phone, you can make and receive calls, read or reply to messages, view notifications, and access additional features such as photos, phone-screen control, or selected Android apps. Support is not identical across platforms: Android generally uses the Link to Windows app and a shared Wi-Fi network, while iPhone pairing relies on Bluetooth Low Energy. Your phone model, operating-system version, permissions, carrier, country, and app versions determine which features actually appear.
What is Phone Link, and what can it do?
Phone Link is Microsoft’s Windows application for connecting a phone to a PC. It does not turn every phone into a fully mirrored Windows device. Instead, it exposes specific phone functions that Microsoft supports for your model and software combination.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Calls: Make and receive ordinary cellular calls on the PC when the phone and computer are connected over Bluetooth.
- Messages: Read and reply to supported text conversations. On iPhone, the available messages and notifications depend on permissions and are more limited than on Android.
- Notifications: Show selected phone notifications in Windows when you grant the required access.
- Photos and other experiences: Selected Android devices may provide photo access, phone-screen control, or an Apps experience.
Microsoft maintains the live compatibility details in its supported-device list. Treat that list as authoritative rather than assuming that two phones running the same operating system have the same capabilities.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Android and iPhone support compared
| Area | Supported Android phone | Supported iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| Basic requirements | Android 10 or later is the general requirement; the phone and PC should use the same Wi-Fi network. | iOS 16 or later, a Windows 11 PC with Bluetooth Low Energy, and Bluetooth pairing. |
| Connection used for core setup | Link to Windows app or a manufacturer-preinstalled version, plus the shared Wi-Fi connection. | Bluetooth, with permissions granted for each feature. |
| Calls | Available when Bluetooth is enabled and the phone is paired. | Available when Bluetooth is enabled and the phone is paired; contact synchronization may need to be enabled. |
| Messages and notifications | Available in supported configurations, subject to permissions. | Available with permission, but the feature set is not the same as Android’s. |
| Photos, phone screen, and apps | Only selected models and markets qualify; Apps has narrower requirements, including Android 11 for Microsoft’s multiple-app instructions. | Phone Link does not provide Android-style phone-app mirroring for iPhone. |
| RCS | Conditional: Microsoft identifies supported devices using Samsung Messages as the default messaging app, with carrier and country limitations. | Not presented by Microsoft as the Android RCS experience. |
These are capability categories, not guarantees for every handset. Check Microsoft’s current compatibility page before buying a phone or troubleshooting a missing feature.
#1 Best Overall
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
What you need before pairing
For Android
- A Windows 11 PC and an Android phone running Android 10 or later for the general setup path.
- The same Wi-Fi network on the PC and phone.
- The Link to Windows app, unless your phone has it preinstalled.
- A Microsoft account and permission to access the phone functions you choose.
Some features, including Apps and Phone screen, require a smaller set of supported models, newer Android versions, preinstalled software, or a supported market. Android 10 is therefore a baseline for general pairing, not a promise that every feature will work.
For iPhone
- Windows 11 with Bluetooth Low Energy support on the PC.
- An iPhone running iOS 16 or later.
- Bluetooth enabled on both devices.
- Permission for messages, notifications, contacts, or other data you want to expose to Windows.
Microsoft’s complete requirements are in Phone Link requirements and setup. Hardware and software requirements can change as Microsoft expands or retires experiences.
How to connect an Android phone to Windows 11
- On the PC, open Phone Link from the Start menu. Sign in with your Microsoft account if prompted.
- On the Android phone, install or open Link to Windows. If it is preinstalled, update it through the phone’s app-update mechanism.
- Follow the pairing prompt. Keep the phone and PC on the same Wi-Fi network and scan or enter the code shown by Phone Link.
- Accept only the permissions for features you intend to use. Calls, messages, notifications, photos, and contacts can have separate permissions.
- Leave the phone connected and allow Link to Windows to run in the background. Battery-saver restrictions can interrupt synchronization.
- After pairing, open each Phone Link section—Messages, Calls, Notifications, or Photos—to finish its feature-specific setup.
If the phone connects but a section is missing, that usually indicates a model, version, regional, or permission limitation rather than a failed pairing. Compare the handset with Microsoft’s supported-device list.
How to connect an iPhone to Windows 11
- Turn on Bluetooth on both the Windows 11 PC and the iPhone. Confirm that the PC supports Bluetooth Low Energy.
- Open Phone Link on Windows and choose the iPhone option.
- Use the Bluetooth pairing code shown on both devices and confirm that the codes match.
- Approve the requested iPhone permissions. Enable contact synchronization if you want names from your address book to appear with calls.
- Allow access to messages and notifications only if you are comfortable displaying them on the PC.
- Test a call, message, and notification separately; iPhone capabilities are not the same as Android’s and may appear as separate permissions.
The current Microsoft setup description covers calls, messages, and notifications for iPhone; it does not describe Android-style app mirroring. See Microsoft’s setup requirements for the supported iOS and Windows versions.
Can I make phone calls from my Windows 11 PC?
Yes. Phone Link can route calls through a connected Android phone or iPhone, but Bluetooth must be available and enabled on both devices. The phone remains the cellular device; the PC supplies the Windows interface and audio hardware.
Rank #2
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network. Tracfone plan required, activating is easy, just 3 steps.
- DISPLAY: Immersive viewing on a 6.7-inch super-bright 120Hz display with powerful stereo speakers and Bass Boost for cinematic entertainment.
- CAMERA SYSTEM: Advanced 50MP Quad Pixel camera captures sharp, detailed photos and videos in any lighting condition
- PERFORMANCE: Lightning-fast 5G connectivity paired with a powerful processor and RAM Boost for smooth multitasking.
- BATTERY LIFE: Long-lasting 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging technology delivers hours of power in minutes.
Call setup checklist
- Pair the phone with Windows in Bluetooth settings and keep it nearby.
- Open Phone Link and complete the Calls permission or setup prompt.
- Allow contacts to synchronize if you want caller names and the PC’s contact search.
- Check that the correct microphone, speakers, or headset are selected in Windows sound settings.
If calls do not work, remove the Bluetooth pairing on both devices, restart Bluetooth, pair again, and repeat the Calls permission step. Also install pending Windows and Phone Link updates before testing.
Do not use Phone Link for emergencies. Microsoft states: "Phone Link is not intended to support or carry emergency calls to any types of hospitals, law enforcement agencies, medical care units, or any other kinds of services that connect users to emergency services personnel or public safety answering points (“Emergency Services”)." Read the full warning in Microsoft’s calls support page. Use the phone’s normal cellular emergency-calling method instead.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesCan I text from my computer?
In supported configurations, Phone Link lets you read and reply to messages from Windows. The phone supplies the messaging account and network connection; Phone Link presents the conversations on the PC.
Permissions and privacy
Granting message or notification access can expose sensitive content on the computer. Microsoft specifically warns that two-factor-authentication SMS and other private messages may become visible in Phone Link. Review who can sign in to the Windows account and lock the PC when you step away. Revoke message or notification permission on the phone if you no longer want that data displayed.
Why RCS may not appear
RCS is not a universal Phone Link feature. Microsoft’s supported-device guidance describes RCS for identified devices when Samsung Messages is the default messaging app, and says availability also depends on the carrier network and country. A compatible Android version alone is not enough. Check the live supported-device guidance before changing your messaging app or carrier settings.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Why won’t Phone Link update?
Microsoft recommends keeping Windows, Phone Link, and Link to Windows current. The exact menus can change, but these are the current Microsoft-directed checks.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Update Phone Link on the PC
- Open Phone Link.
- Choose Settings > About > Updates.
- If an update is offered, select Update.
Update Link to Windows on Android
Open the Link to Windows settings on the phone and use its update option when available. If the app was installed from an app store, also check for pending app updates there.
Update Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Select Windows Update.
- Choose Check for updates.
Restart the PC and phone after major updates, then reopen Phone Link. Microsoft’s FAQ is at Frequently asked questions about Phone Link; update labels may move in later releases.
Can I use my Android apps on my PC?
Only in a limited way. Phone Link’s Apps experience is restricted to selected Android phones from manufacturers including Samsung, HONOR, OPPO, ASUS, vivo, and Xiaomi. Microsoft’s instructions for the multiple-app experience include Android 11 requirements, and the exact model list and software versions vary.
When supported, the PC is controlling or displaying apps from the connected phone; it is not installing every Android application as a native Windows program. iPhone users should not expect this feature through Phone Link.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallRank #4
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Phone screen is a separate capability
Phone screen has its own narrower requirements. Microsoft describes it for supported Android devices in select markets, generally requiring Android 10 or later and Link to Windows preinstalled for the listed scenario. Check the dedicated Apps setup instructions and the compatible-device list before troubleshooting a missing Phone screen button.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why is my phone missing from the Windows 11 Start menu?
Microsoft is gradually rolling out a Start-menu phone companion, so it may not be visible on every PC immediately. The published requirements include Windows 11, Phone Link version 1.25032.82.0, and a Microsoft account. Microsoft distinguishes the Android and iPhone capabilities shown there, including photo access for Android.
If the Start-menu entry is absent, use the standalone Phone Link app to pair the phone. Absence can mean the rollout has not reached your PC, the app version is too old, or the account and device requirements are not met. See Microsoft’s Mobile device in Start Menu page for the current rollout details.
Phone Link troubleshooting by symptom
“My phone will not pair.”
- Confirm the Windows and phone operating systems meet the relevant minimums.
- For Android, place both devices on the same Wi-Fi network.
- For iPhone, verify Bluetooth Low Energy support on the PC and enable Bluetooth on both devices.
- Update Phone Link and Link to Windows, then restart both devices.
- Remove an old Bluetooth pairing and create a new one if calls or iPhone setup are stuck.
“Calls work, but messages or notifications do not.”
Open the phone’s permission settings and Phone Link’s feature settings. Messages and notifications are granted separately, and iPhone permissions control which content is available. Re-enable only the categories you want displayed.
“The Apps or Phone screen option is missing.”
Check the exact model, Android version, preinstalled Link to Windows status, and country against Microsoft’s supported-device list. These features are not general Android compatibility promises.
Best Value
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network. Activating is easy, just 3 steps.
- ACTIVATION Promotion: Includes 1500 min, 1500 texts & 1500 MB Data + add more as you need it
- CAMERA SYSTEM: 50MP Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
- PERFORMANCE: Blazing-fast Qualcomm performance. Get the speed you need for great entertainment with a Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB of RAM.
- 64GB built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps. Made for US
“The connection keeps dropping.”
Keep the phone within Bluetooth range for calls, disable aggressive battery optimization for Link to Windows, and avoid switching the phone or PC between Wi-Fi networks during setup. Re-pairing Bluetooth can restore the Calls connection.
Does Phone Link cost anything, and do I need extra hardware?
Phone Link is Windows software and does not require buying a separate paid product. Messages, notifications, and updates do not need an accessory. Calls do require Bluetooth on the PC; if the computer has no Bluetooth, a compatible USB Bluetooth adapter for PC may provide it. Microsoft establishes the Bluetooth requirement but does not endorse a particular adapter, so check compatibility with your Windows edition and available USB port before purchasing.
No phone case, charger, or generic PC upgrade solves a missing Phone Link feature. If Apps, Phone screen, or RCS is unavailable, the limiting factor is usually the supported-device, software, carrier, or regional requirement rather than a missing accessory.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →What Phone Link cannot do
- It cannot guarantee every feature on every Android phone or iPhone.
- It cannot carry emergency calls.
- It does not provide unrestricted Android-app installation on Windows.
- It does not provide Android-style app mirroring for iPhone.
- It cannot override carrier, country, model, operating-system, or permission restrictions.
For the most reliable result, start with the general requirements, pair the devices, grant only the permissions you need, and verify model-specific features in Microsoft’s live documentation before changing hardware or buying a phone.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
