aka.ms/PhoneLink: Connect Your Phone to Microsoft Windows 10 & 11
aka.ms/PhoneLink: The Complete 2025 Guide to Linking Your Phone with Windows 10 & 11
Welcome to the official Microsoft guide for aka.ms/PhoneLink. Whether you use Android or iPhone, this page will help you connect your smartphone to your Windows PC for seamless messaging, calls, notifications, file sharing, and more. Unlock next-level productivity and keep your digital life in sync-without missing a beat.
What is aka.ms/PhoneLink?
aka.ms/PhoneLink is Microsoft’s official shortcut URL for connecting your Android or iPhone to a Windows 10 or 11 PC using the Phone Link app (formerly Your Phone).
By visiting this link, you’ll be guided to the right app and setup flow for your device, making cross-device integration easy and secure.
Why Use Phone Link? Key Benefits
Send and receive SMS and MMS from your PC
Access and manage notifications in real time
Make and receive calls directly from your computer
View and transfer photos and files instantly
Mirror your mobile apps on your PC screen
Copy and paste text and images across devices
Sync content over Wi-Fi or mobile data
Requirements & Supported Devices
Windows 10 (April 2020 update or later) or Windows 11 PC
Android phone (Android 7.0 or higher) or iPhone (iOS 14 or higher)
Same Microsoft account signed in on both devices
Stable Wi-Fi connection (recommended for best performance)
Bluetooth enabled for call features
Tip: Most Samsung and HONOR devices have Link to Windows preinstalled. For other Androids, download from Google Play. For iPhone, follow the in-app instructions.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
On Your Windows PC
Open the Phone Link App
Press the Windows key, type “Phone Link,” and open the app.
If not installed, download from the Microsoft Store.
Sign In
Use your Microsoft account (same as on your phone).
Start Pairing
Choose your phone type: Android or iPhone.
Display QR Code
The app will show a QR code for pairing.
On Your Phone
Visit aka.ms/PhoneLink
Open your browser and enter aka.ms/PhoneLink.
Download the Link to Windows app (Android) or follow the pairing instructions (iPhone).
Sign In & Pair
Log in with your Microsoft account.
Scan the QR code on your PC or enter the pairing code manually.
Grant Permissions
Allow access to contacts, SMS, call logs, notifications, and photos.
Finish Setup
Follow prompts to complete. You’ll see a confirmation when linked.
HowTo: Pair Your Phone with Windows
Step 1:
Open Phone Link on your PC and select your phone type.
Step 2:
On your PC, visit aka.ms/PhoneLink or www.aka.ms/PhoneLink and install the required app that is Microsoft Phone Link. If it is already installed, then it will open the application right away.
Step 3:
Sign in with the same Microsoft account on both devices.
Step 4:
Scan the QR code or enter the code manually.
Step 5:
Grant all requested permissions.
Step 6:
Wait for the confirmation message-your devices are now linked!
Customizing and Managing Features
Go to Phone Link > Settings > Features on your PC.
Toggle features on/off: Notifications, Messages, Calls, Photos, Apps.
Choose where transferred files are saved.
Enable/disable cross-device copy and paste.
Set up instant hotspot or wallpaper sync (where supported).
Allow syncing over mobile data if needed.
Disabling a feature pauses its sync until re-enabled. Adjust settings anytime for privacy or performance.
Customizing and Managing Features
Messaging
Send and receive SMS/MMS from your PC.
Group messaging, emojis, and media support.
Calls
Make and receive calls using your PC’s microphone and speakers.
Access call history and contacts.
Switch between PC and phone mid-call.
Photos & Files
View, download, and transfer recent photos instantly.
Drag and drop files between devices.
Copy text/images across devices.
App Mirroring (Android)
Run Android apps on your PC.
Pin favorite mobile apps to your Windows taskbar.
Notifications
Get real-time phone notifications on your desktop.
Reply, dismiss, or manage notifications without picking up your phone.
Troubleshooting & Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| QR code won’t scan | Ensure good lighting, clean your camera lens, and check Wi-Fi. |
| Devices not pairing | Restart both devices, ensure same Wi-Fi, try pairing again. |
| Notifications not syncing | Check permissions and notification access in Android/iOS settings. |
| Calls not working | Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and permissions are granted. |
| App crashes or freezes | Update Phone Link and Link to Windows apps; restart devices. |
| Photo/file sync issues | Check storage permissions and network connection. |
Advanced Fixes:
Reset App Permissions: Android/iOS Settings > Apps > Link to Windows > Permissions.
Reinstall Apps: Uninstall and reinstall both Phone Link (PC) and Link to Windows (phone).
Clear Cache: Android Settings > Apps > Link to Windows > Storage > Clear Cache.
Update Software: Ensure both PC and phone are running latest OS versions.
For more troubleshooting, visit Microsoft’s official troubleshooting guide.
Security & Privacy
End-to-End Encryption: All data is encrypted during transmission.
Permission Controls: You control which features and data are accessible.
No Data Selling: Microsoft does not sell your personal information.
Easy Unlinking: Unpair devices anytime via Phone Link settings.
Tip: Keep your apps updated for the latest security enhancements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Yes, it’s an official Microsoft URL and completely secure.
A: Yes, with limited features compared to Android. Follow in-app instructions for iOS.
A: Most Androids running 7.0+; Samsung, HONOR, and Surface Duo get enhanced features.
A: Yes, but Wi-Fi is recommended for best performance.
A: Open Phone Link > Settings > My Devices > Unlink.
A: Phone Link and Link to Windows are free.
Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem
OneDrive: Back up and access photos/files instantly.
Outlook: Respond to emails and texts without switching devices.
Teams: Share content between phone and PC during meetings.
Edge Browser: Share web pages and links between devices.
User Testimonials
“Phone Link lets me reply to texts and manage calls right from my laptop-no more missed messages!”
Neha, Consultant
“Transferring photos between my phone and PC is instant. It’s a game changer for my workflow.”
Arjun, Photographer
“App mirroring means I can use my favorite Android apps on my desktop. Super convenient!”
Priya, Student
Related Resources
Conclusion
aka.ms/PhoneLink is your bridge to a unified digital experience. With this guide, you can enjoy seamless messaging, file transfers, app mirroring, and more-all from your Windows PC. Bookmark this page for updates as Microsoft continues to enhance Phone Link.
Ready to get started?
This guide is brought to you by Microsoft. For official support, visit the Microsoft Help Center.