I often use the Phone Link app in Windows to interact with my iPhone or Android phone. This lets me send and receive phone calls and text messages directly from my PC. Now, Microsoft has kicked off another feature that lets you control your phone from your computer.
New Phone Connection option
The latest version of the Windows Copilot app introduces an option called Phone Connection. Using this capability, you can ask Copilot to perform certain tasks on your Android device, such as sending a text, setting a timer, or getting directions.
Also: Microsoft’s Copilot AI now has a Mac app – here’s what you’ll need to run it
As spotted and tested by Windows Latest, Phone Connection takes a page from Phone Link. The goal is to save you time and effort by not having to reach for your phone whenever you want to perform a specific task. And by using Copilot, you don’t have to manually go through each step as you do with Phone Link. Just type your request in natural language, and Copilot will attempt to carry out your command.
How set up and use Phone Connection
Want to take Phone Connection for a spin? You’ll have to meet a few conditions.
First, make sure you’ve already set up your Android phone to sync with your PC using the Windows Phone Link app. If not, check the steps in my article on how to link your Android phone to your Windows 11 PC. Though these steps are geared toward Windows 11, the process is the same in Windows 10.
Your Android phone must be running Android 14 or higher. Check your current version under Settings and download the latest update if required.
Also: All Copilot users now get free unlimited access to its two best features – how to use them
You also need to have the newest version of the Copilot app. Download the app from the Microsoft Store if you don’t already have it. Otherwise, open the Microsoft Store app, select Downloads, and then click the button for “Check for Updates.” That will update all your store apps, including Copilot.
Next, launch Copilot from the Windows Start menu or All Apps screen. Make sure you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account or work/school account that you use with the Link to Windows app on your Android device.
In Copilot, click the profile icon at the bottom of the left sidebar, select Settings, and scroll to the bottom of the Settings screen. Under Phone Connection, make sure your Android phone is listed and that the switch is turned on.
Return to the main Copilot screen and start a new conversation. Instead of posing a general question, ask it to do something using your phone. Microsoft’s support page on Phone Connection offers a few suggestions.
Also: You can ‘Press to Talk’ to Copilot via a Windows hotkey now – here’s how
You can tell Copilot to send a text to a specific person in your phone’s contacts list. You can tell it to set a timer or alarm for a certain time. You can ask it to locate a specific place, such as the nearest pharmacy. You can ask it for directions (though this works only with specific Samsung phones). You can also try other requests that involve your phone, though your results may vary.
My experience with Phone Connection so far
I tried using Phone Connection on a Google Pixel phone in both Windows 10 and 11. How did it fare?
At this point, the feature is definitely in its nascent stage, so it feels rough around the edges. But overall, I was impressed with it, certainly as a first step. Following the requests suggested by Microsoft worked just about every time. However, you should be aware of a few obstacles and limitations.
Also: Worried about DeepSeek? Turns out, Gemini is the biggest data offender
Phone Connection works only in the Copilot desktop app and not the mobile version or website. iPhones aren’t supported, only Android devices.
In some cases, your request kicks off immediately. In other cases, you have to confirm the request either on your PC or phone. That limits the convenience of Phone Connection since you may have to reach for your phone anyway.
You also have to type your request at the Copilot prompt. Speaking doesn’t work. When I asked Copilot to set a timer by speaking the request, the AI told me that it can’t interact with external devices.
Also: 7 quick ways to make Windows 11 less annoying right now
Still, I think Microsoft has a good idea here, and I hope the company continues to develop this feature. I’d also like to see it support the iPhone. For now, Phone Connection is definitely worth trying, but it needs further refinement before it becomes a tool you’ll want to use every day.
Get the morning’s top stories in your inbox each day with our Tech Today newsletter.
