Microsoft enhances Link to Windows app to lock PCs from Android devices
- Microsoft has upgraded the Link to Windows app to enhance user interaction between Android phones and Windows 11 PCs.
- The update allows users to manually lock their PCs from their phones and monitor battery life and Wi-Fi status.
- This feature promotes security and convenience for users handling sensitive information using their mobile and PC.
On July 24, 2025, Microsoft announced a significant upgrade to its Link to Windows app, improving the interaction between Android phones and Windows 11 PCs. Initially, users could set their PCs to lock if they moved beyond a certain distance, determined by the phone's location. The latest enhancement introduces a new feature that allows users to manually lock their PC with a single touch on their Android device, providing immediate security even from a short distance. This improvement comes in handy for users wanting to secure sensitive information when stepping away. Along with the manual locking feature, the upgraded app boasts a refreshed design and additional functionalities. Users can now monitor key aspects of their PC, such as battery life and Wi-Fi status, directly from their mobile device. The onboarding process has been simplified, allowing for easier setup of the app on Android without needing a PC, making it more user-friendly for new adopters. Furthermore, this update enables the transfer of files from the phone to the PC seamlessly and allows users to mirror their mobile screens onto their PCs. The enhancements, as stated, are being gradually rolled out, meaning that not all users will experience the changes immediately. To access the latest features, users must update their devices to specific versions: the Windows Insider Preview build on PCs, along with Phone Link version 1.25062.83.0 or higher, and Link to Windows app version 1.25071.155 or higher on Android devices. These changes reflect Microsoft's continuous effort to enhance the connectivity and synergy between different devices, catering especially to users who frequently switch between their mobile phones and PCs. In summary, the update not only improves security features for users managing sensitive materials away from their PCs but also streamlines the multi-device experience. With the growing reliance on mobile devices for everyday tasks, Microsoft's latest update fortifies the linkage between Android and Windows products, ultimately enhancing productivity and user convenience in daily digital interactions.