Windows 11 Start Menu Now Supports iPhone: The feature will be included in Windows 11. First available to Android users, this is now possible on iPhones too. iPhone users will now have access to their calls and messages straight from their PCs, allowing for easier usage of these functions. This is done through the integration of an iPhone with the Start menu using a Microsoft account. It will first be tested with Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels.
Windows Insiders Get Early Access to iPhone Integration
With Windows Insider Preview Build 4805 or higher, iPhone integration can be accessed via the Start menu. For that, the Phone Link version must be at least 1.24121.30.0. The new update provides a more efficient way of connecting between devices and viewing notifications, messages, and call logs without reaching for the iPhone.
Microsoft aims to refine the feature before rolling it out to the general public. The integration ensures a smoother experience between iPhones and Windows PCs, eliminating the need for third-party apps to bridge the gap.
File-Sharing Becomes Easier with This Update
This update will make the file-sharing experience better for Windows 11 users. Microsoft has enabled real-time sharing of files between PCs and iPhones. Users can now access recent files, messages, and contacts directly through the Start menu, which makes workflow management more efficient.
This integration enables its users to track battery life, connection status, and activity recently on the iPhones. With this stripped interface, everything will always be accessible from the Start menu. Nothing would make them jump between gadgets anymore.
Microsoft Plans a Wider Release Soon
The company recently confirmed that this feature will soon be available in standard versions of Windows 11. Microsoft is looking to expand upon its functionality and increase compatibility with feedback from beta testers. Updates may implement new enhancements in the future, such as advanced notification controls and deeper IOS integration.
For now, however, users in the Beta and Dev channels can test the feature and report any bugs. Microsoft continues to refine the system to make sure that it’ll work flawlessly at launch.
Windows 11 introduces a new drag-and-drop file-sharing UI
Microsoft is also testing a new user interface (UI) of file sharing for Windows 11, in addition to integration with iPhone. Users now drag files from File Explorer to the top edge of the screen, which then opens a tray and shows options for sharing. A drop on an icon automatically attaches a file to an email or a messaging application or even cloud storage service.
This new update simplifies file transfers for Windows 11, thus it becomes more intuitive. Microsoft reduces extra steps when it is eliminated in order to make things more efficient, especially for users often sharing files between devices.
The new update means iPhone users no longer have to depend on third-party apps for cross-device functionality with Windows PCs, unlike Android users who can use features through Phone Link. The gap is eliminated with native support through the Start menu.
Now, iPhone users can:
- View and send messages directly from Windows 11
- Access recent call logs without unlocking their phones
- Monitor battery life and network status
- Share files easily between their PC and iPhone
These improvements unite an experience such that Windows 11 is a more versatile platform for all users.
How to Activate iPhone Integration on Windows 11
For testers, the process is as follows:
- Make sure they are running Windows Insider Preview Build 4805 or higher
- Update Phone Link to version 1.24121.30.0 or later
- Be sure to enable Bluetooth on the PC and iPhone
- Sign into their Microsoft account on Windows 11
- They have to go through the setup in Phone Link to connect their iPhone
This enables users to have direct access to their iPhones right from the Start menu after the completion of all these steps.
Future Updates
Microsoft is continually upgrading Windows 11’s connectivity features. Future releases may include the advanced controls over calls, notifications, and even file transfers. The company will also optimize user experience by introducing more iOS capabilities into the OS.
As Microsoft perfects these features, Windows 11 will become even more user-friendly for iPhone owners. The expanded integration marks a significant step toward bridging the gap between Apple and Microsoft ecosystems.
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