Windows 11 tests wireless file explorer access for Android phones in insider preview
Microsoft is testing a new feature in Windows 11's File Explorer that allows users to wirelessly access folders and files on their Android phones. This feature, available to Windows Insiders, enables Android phones to appear as regular USB devices within File Explorer, making it easier for users to copy, move, rename, or delete files between their PC and Android device. This provides a faster alternative to the existing Phone Link app.
To use this feature, users need an Android device running version 11 or higher and must be part of the Windows Insider program. Additionally, the beta version of the Link to Windows app is required. The feature is available across all four Windows Insider channels, including the Release Preview ring.
To enable the feature, users should navigate to Settings Bluetooth & Devices Mobile Devices and select the manage devices section. A prompt will appear, offering a toggle for File Explorer access, along with options for notifications and camera access.
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Related news
External links
- Ability to access your Android phone in File Explorer begins rolling out to Windows InsidersWindows Insider Blog • Official source
- Windows 11 will soon add your Android phone to File Explorer The Verge
- Windows 11 Is Adding Your Android Phone to File ExplorerHow-To Geek
- Android users rejoice! You’ll soon be able to connect Windows 11 File Explorer to your smartphone and transfer files with easeTechRadar
- New Windows 11 feature lets you wirelessly browse your phone's filesystem directly within File ExplorerWindows Central
Comments
love to see this on kde connect
It's actually really cool, not not need something like Syncthing. But at the same time, I would never use it due to privacy concerns. So useless to me. But it would be useful to many others who don't care about privacy.
Yeah, I agree. This and the feature of integrating the Phone Link app into the Start menu actually don’t sound like bad ideas, although I’m not so sure how often they would be really used
Microsoft to integrate Windows 11 Start Menu with Phone Link for quick Phone access
Or KDE Connect:
KDE Connect