Microsoft wants to help even more Android phones be useful Windows allies
Link to Windows now supports even more Android phones
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Microsofthas made a considerable update to its Link to Windows application, designed to link certain smartphones withWindows 10andWindows 11machines.
The app, which has for a long time worked withSamsungand HONOR phones, will now support additional devices from OnePlus, OPPO, and Realme. The desktop app is also compatible with iOS models.
Some Android models remain noticeably absent from the list, includingGoogle’s ownPixelphones. It’s unclear whether Microsoft or Google is hindering progress on this front, but Google has a similar solution forChromebooks.
Link to Windows just got even better
An updatedMicrosoft supportpage details the full list of compatible smartphones, including some recent models like the Surface Duo 2,SamsungGalaxy Z Fold5, Samsung Galaxy S23, and HONOR Magic4 Pro.
Microsoft’s app serves as more than just a desktop client for receiving phone and message notifications. It’s also a place for viewing a smartphone’s camera roll, checking your contacts, viewing phone connectivity information such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth status, controlling media playback, and even altering modes such as Do Not Disturb.
The features for iOS users are more limited but include all the staples.
Separately, Microsoft is actually testing an option to disable Phone Link inWindows 11InsiderPreview Build 25997.
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Redmond has been under a lot of pressure in recent months over anticompetitive practices, seeing it unbundle Teams from the Microsoft 365 package in order to satisfy EU regulators and competitors like Slack.
Not forcing its Phone Link on customers could be a preemptive decision to appease competition.
More broadly,Applerecentlyrevealedplans to bring RCS in 2024, something that it has previously refused to do despite intense pressure from the likes of Google and Samsung.
What all of this means is that, with time, a more interoperable mobile technology landscape will give consumers even more choice and freedom to pick the precise combination of hardware and software that they prefer.
ViaWindowsLatest
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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
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