iPhone Integration Coming to Windows 11 Start Menu
by Ben Grave - Fri 07 Mar 2025Microsoft is enhancing seamless phone integration with Windows 11, and iPhone users will soon be able to access their device directly from the Start Menu.
What’s Changing?
The Phone Link app has been around for a while, allowing users to connect their smartphones to Windows PCs. However, Microsoft is now taking this a step further by integrating it into the Start Menu, making it even easier to view your mobile notifications, messages, and calls without switching screens.
Currently, this feature is only available to Windows Insider Build users running Windows 11 Build 26120.3000. However, we anticipate it will be rolled out in a future major Windows 11 update, offering greater connectivity for all users.
How to Connect Your iPhone to Windows 11 Using Phone Link
If you haven't tried Phone Link yet, here’s how to set it up:
- Ensure your PC has Bluetooth enabled.
- Download the Phone Link app from the Microsoft Store on your Windows PC.
- Select "iPhone" and then choose "Scan QR Code."
- On your iPhone, enable Bluetooth and use your camera to scan the QR code displayed on your PC.
- Pair your devices via Bluetooth, ensuring the 6-digit code on your iPhone matches the one shown on your PC.
- Once connected, enable notifications on your iPhone and customise what information the Phone Link app can access, including: Battery status, Calls, Messages, Notifications, Music playback
Is This Feature for You?
Our team member, Lyndon, isn’t fully convinced by Phone Link in its current state, but he admits that having instant access from the Start Menu could be a game-changer—especially for those who frequently use Windows 11 throughout the day.
What do you think? Will Phone Link make your workflow smoother? Contact Us if you have thoughts or questions.
