You Can Control Your Android Phone Directly from Windows Start Menu, with Phone Link Panel, Here's How

On May 16, 2025, Microsoft introduced a Phone Link panel in the Windows Start Menu to improve Android phone integration. The update lets users launch Android apps, check notifications, and manage messages without leaving the desktop.

The Phone Link panel offers quick access to recent apps and notifications, reducing the need to switch devices constantly. Users can pin the panel for easier multitasking or open it on demand from the Start Menu. This feature simplifies handling phone tasks while working on a PC.

Also read: Microsoft Finally Rolls Out “Hey, Copilot!” Voice Activation for Windows – Check DEETS Here

This addition complements the existing Phone Link app but streamlines common functions by bringing them into Windows’ main interface. It aims to cut friction for users who juggle between Android devices and Windows computers daily.

The panel is currently rolling out to Windows 11 users with the latest Phone Link app installed and an active connection to an Android device. Microsoft plans to refine the experience based on user feedback.

By embedding phone controls into the Start Menu, Microsoft strengthens its bid to make Windows a more unified workspace for users with multiple devices.

In other recent headlines, Microsoft also made accessing Copilot easier by just using a single key phrase. You can read about it in detail here.