Microsoft to integrate Windows 11 Start Menu with Phone Link for quick Phone access

Microsoft has introduced major updates to the Windows 11 Start menu for Windows Insiders, integrating Phone Link messages and notifications. These updates, now available for Beta Channel Insiders, enable users to view phone notifications and battery status directly from the Start menu. The new features include activity continuation between phone and PC, and phone status display in the Start menu.

To use these features, participants must be part of the Windows Insider program in the Beta Channel, running Windows 11 Build 22635.3790 or later, and Phone Link version 1.24052.124.0 or higher.

Moreover, Microsoft is working on a feature that allows users to navigate smartphone files through Windows 11’s File Explorer when connected wirelessly. The current Phone Link app already supports various smartphone-PC connections, with features differing based on whether the device is an Android or an iPhone.