The Problem

You want texts, notifications, or photos on your PC without picking up the phone, but Phone Link will not pair, says the device is unsupported, or drops connection after sleep. Android and iPhone use different features—matching the right app and permissions prevents half-working setups.

Bluetooth won't pair at all? Fix Bluetooth not working. Remote control another PC? Set up Remote Desktop instead of Phone Link.

What You Get (By Phone Type)

| Feature | Android (Link to Windows) | iPhone (limited) | |--------|---------------------------|------------------| | SMS on PC | Yes (Android 7+) | No | | Calls from PC | Many devices | No | | Notifications | Yes | Limited mirroring | | Photos / screen mirror | Selected Samsung / devices | iOS restrictions apply |

The Fix: Step-by-Step (Android)

Step 1: Install Phone Link on Windows

Microsoft Store → install Phone Link (preinstalled on many PCs). Open it → Get started.

Step 2: Install Link to Windows on the Phone

Google Play → Link to Windows (by Microsoft). Sign in with the same Microsoft account as the PC.

Step 3: Pair With QR Code

On PC: Phone Link → Android → show QR code.
On phone: Link to Windows → Pair with QR code → scan.
Grant notifications, contacts, and phone permissions when asked—denying blocks SMS/calls.

Step 4: Enable Bluetooth and Same Wi-Fi (Recommended)

Keep Bluetooth on for stable sync. Same Wi-Fi helps photo transfer; cellular-only can work but is slower. Fix Wi-Fi disconnects if the link drops hourly.

Step 5: Allow Background Activity (Phone)

Android Settings → Apps → Link to Windows → Battery → Unrestricted (wording varies by brand). Samsung: also enable Your Phone Companion in device settings.

iPhone (Limited) Setup

Phone Link → iPhone → follow prompts to pair for calls/notifications where supported in your region and build.
Install Phone Link companion steps from the wizard; full SMS mirroring is not available like Android—expect notification-focused features only.
Keep Focus / Do Not Disturb off while testing.

When Pairing Fails

Remove the PC in phone app Linked devices → pair again.
Settings → Apps → Phone Link → Advanced options → Repair, then Reset if stuck on loading.
Sign out Microsoft account on both devices → sign in → retry.
Corporate PCs: MDM may block Phone Link—ask IT.

Daily Use Tips

Leave Phone Link running in the tray for notification sync.
For file transfer without Link, use share files on the same network or cloud sync.

PC acting sluggish with Phone Link always on? Fix high RAM usage and disable unused startup apps.

How to Set Up Phone Link for Android and iPhone on Windows 11