Microsoft has solved the ‘biggest iPhone-Windows’ problem, here’s how

iPhone Windows integration

Microsoft has been trying to lure Apple iPhone users to move to Windows devices or at least make things easier for cross-platform users. For users who use both an iPhone as well as a Windows PC, the Phone Link app supports iPhones and allows users to access calls, messages, etc To make things easier, the company has now integrated the iPhone support into the Start Menu’s side panel as well. The new integration brings quick integration and access to the iPhone allowing users to check messages, battery, calls, and even photos.

Microsoft added a side panel to the Start menu in the Windows 11 2024 update last year, allowing Android users quick access to a phone’s battery status, notifications, messages, calls, and photos. Now, Microsoft is preparing to bring a similar experience to iPhone owners with Windows 11 laptops or PCs.

“This seamless integration allows iPhone users to enjoy the same benefits as Android users, including ability to view phone’s battery status and connectivity, ability to access messages and calls, and keeping track of the latest activities, all conveniently integrated into the Start menu,” mentions Microsoft’s blog post.

iPhone integration in Windows 11 Start Menu
According to the blog post, the feature is currently in beta testing to select Windows Insider users running Insider Preview Build 4805 and higher in the Beta Channel and 26120.3000 and higher in the Dev channel.

Apart from this, the blog also highlights that users will need a Microsoft Account and Bluetooth LE support to be able to use the feature.

Features

With iPhone integration within the Start Menu side panel, users can access quick information related to their iPhone. This includes battery information, messages, calls, and even sending files from a PC to an iPhone. The file-sharing feature makes it easier for Windows users to share files with their iPhones and that too wirelessly.