Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Phone Link lets you use a Windows PC for basic iPhone calls, supported text messages, contacts, recent calls, and notifications over Bluetooth. It requires an iPhone running iOS 16 or later and a PC with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE); the devices do not need to share Wi-Fi. It does not sync existing iMessage history, support group-message replies or media, or mirror iPhone apps.
What Phone Link for iPhone supports
| Feature | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Calls | Place and receive iPhone calls through your Windows PC. |
| Messages | Send and receive supported text messages while the Bluetooth session is active. |
| Contacts | Use contacts when selecting recipients or making calls. |
| Recent calls | View up to 100 recent calls. |
| Notifications | View and dismiss iPhone notifications in Windows. |
| App mirroring and photos | Not available as part of the standard iPhone Phone Link experience. |
Phone Link for iOS does not support sending or receiving images, GIFs, or Memojis. You also cannot create or reply to group messages from the PC. A group-message notification may appear, but you must respond from the iPhone.
Messages are tied to the active Bluetooth connection. Phone Link displays messages sent or received through the connected session; disconnecting Bluetooth removes that message history from Phone Link. It is not an archive of your iPhone’s existing iMessage conversations.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Check the requirements
Before starting, confirm that you have:
- Windows 11, or Windows 10 with the May 2019 Update or later
- An iPhone running iOS 16 or later
- A PC with Bluetooth Low Energy support
- Bluetooth enabled on both devices
- The latest available Windows updates and Phone Link version
- A personal Microsoft account
Work and school Microsoft accounts are not supported for this setup. Keep the iPhone close to the PC during pairing and use.
#1 Best Overall
- Bluetooth 5.4 + Broad Compatibility - Provides Bluetooth 5.4 plus EDR technology and is backward compatible with Bluetooth V5.3/5.0/4.2/4.0/3.0/2.1/2.0/1.1.
- Faster Speed, Extended Range - Get up to 2x faster data transfer and 4x broader coverage compared to Bluetooth 4.0 — perfect for smooth audio streaming and stable connections.
- EDR and BLE Technology - This Bluetooth dongle is quipped with enhanced data rate and Bluetooth low energy, UB500 has greatly improved data transfer speed and operates at the optimal rate of power consumption
- Nano-Sized - A sleek, ultra-small design means you can insert the Nano Bluetooth receiver into any USB port and simply keep it there regardless of whether you are traveling or at home
- Plug & Play with Free Driver Support - Plug and play for Windows 8.1/10/11 (internet required). Supports Win7 (driver required and can be downloaded from website for free). Download the latest driver from TP-Link website to utilize Bluetooth 5.4
The iPhone and PC do not need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for the basic iOS Phone Link experience. Bluetooth and BLE are the important requirements. The Link to Windows app in the App Store is optional; the standard pairing process does not require it. If you do install it, Microsoft lists version 1.23031.2 or later for an optimal pairing experience.
Version note: Some older Microsoft pages mention iOS 14 or iOS 15. Microsoft’s current general Phone Link requirements specify iOS 16 or later, so use iOS 16 as the supported baseline.
Make sure Phone Link is installed
- Open Start.
- Search for Phone Link.
- Select Phone Link from the results.
Phone Link is installed by default on most Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers. If it is missing:
- Open Settings.
- Search for Phone Link.
- Select Enable or disable Phone Link.
- Turn on Turn on Phone Link.
- Select Install in the pop-up window.
Pair an iPhone with Phone Link
- Turn on Bluetooth on the Windows PC and iPhone.
- Open Phone Link in Windows.
- Under Pick your phone, select iPhone.
- Follow the instructions in the Phone Link window.
- Use the iPhone’s built-in Camera app to scan the QR code shown on the PC.
- Complete the Bluetooth pairing prompts on both devices.
- Approve the requested permissions on the iPhone.
If iPhone is greyed out or unavailable under Pick your phone, Bluetooth may be turned off or unavailable on the PC.
To add another phone later, open:
Phone Link > Settings > My Devices > Link new device
Phone Link generates a new QR code when pairing a new iPhone.
Grant iPhone Bluetooth permissions
Pairing alone is not enough. The iPhone’s Bluetooth settings control which information the PC can access.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- INSTANT BLUETOOTH ACCESS: Bluetooth dongle adapter receiver for PCs converts non-Bluetooth devices into Bluetooth-capable with simple USB connection
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Supports Bluetooth 5.4 and is backwards compatible with Bluetooth 5.3/5.2/5.1/5.0/V4.2/4.0/3.0/2.1/2.0/1.1; ONLY works with Windows 8.1, 10, and 11
- MULTI-DEVICE CONNECTION: Connect up to 6 devices simultaneously; Not compatible with all other operation systems e.g. Mac, Linux, Chrome, Unix, Playstation(PS), Windows 7 and below; Nano bluetooth receiver can be plugged in via any standard USB port
- ENHANCED PERFORMANCE: EDR and BLE technology offers enhanced data rate/transfer speed and low energy consumption
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Not compatible with all other operation systems e.g. Mac, Linux, Chrome, Unix, Playstation(PS), Windows 7 and below; Disable any built-in Bluetooth of the device before use this product, refer to the user manual for detail
- On the iPhone, open Settings.
- Tap Bluetooth.
- Find the paired PC under My Devices.
- Tap the ⓘ information button beside the PC name.
- Enable the available Phone Link permissions.
The relevant options may include:
- Share System Notifications — allows notifications and messages to reach Windows.
- Show Notifications or Show Notification — allows message notifications.
- Sync Contacts — enables contacts, messages, and call history access.
The exact capitalization and singular/plural wording can vary between iOS versions and Microsoft’s documentation.
Be aware that allowing message access can expose sensitive messages, including two-factor authentication SMS codes, on the Windows PC.
Turn Phone Link features on or off
In Phone Link, open:
Phone Link > Settings > Features
Use this page to control synchronization for Messages, Calls, and Notifications. Disabling a feature stops its associated content from syncing until you enable it again.
Phone Link may show settings for Photos, Apps, audio controls, or cross-device copy and paste. Those are mainly Android features and should not be assumed to work with an iPhone.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Send and receive iPhone messages
- Open Phone Link.
- Select Messages.
- Select New message.
- Enter a contact name or phone number.
- Select the contact.
- Type the message and send it.
Phone Link shows messages sent or received through the current Bluetooth session. It does not import the iPhone’s complete message history.
Message limitations
- No image, GIF, or Memoji sending or receiving.
- No creating or replying to group messages.
- No deleting messages from the PC.
- No permanent message history after Bluetooth disconnects.
For a group-message notification, open the conversation on the iPhone to reply.
Make and receive calls from Windows
Phone Link uses Bluetooth to route calls between the iPhone and PC. Keep the iPhone within Bluetooth range.
Rank #3
- Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 Adapter: This bluetooth adapter for pc uses the latest upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 BR+EDR technology, greatly improves the stability of the connection data transfer speed, reduces the possibility of signal interruption and power consumption.
- Up to 5 Devices Sync Connected: UGREEN Bluetooth dongle for PC supports up to 5 different types of Bluetooth devices to be connected at the same time without interfering with each other, such as Bluetooth mouse/keyboard/mobile phone/headphones, etc. If Bluetooth audio devices of the same type (such as speakers/headphones) are connected, only one device can play music.
- Plug and Play: The Bluetooth adapter is developed for Windows systems only and does not support other systems. No driver installation is required under Windows 11/10/8.1. NOTE: Win 7, Linux and MacOS System are NOT supported.
- Mini Size: An extremely compact Bluetooth stick that you can leave on your laptop or PC without removing it.The compact size does not interfere with other USB ports. Convenient to carry, no space occupation.
- What Can I do if the Bluetooth adapter can not work?: Ensure there are no other Bluetooth devices installed on the computer. If there are, disable all existing Bluetooth devices in "Device Manager", then insert the adapter and try again. (For detailed information please read the user manual)
Place a call
- Open Phone Link.
- Select Calls.
- Search for a contact or enter a phone number.
- Select the Dial icon.
During a call, use the keypad control to enter numbers for an automated phone system. Phone Link can display up to 100 recent calls, but recent calls cannot be deleted from the PC.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchIf calling was skipped during setup, go to:
Phone Link > Settings > Features > Calls
Then enable Allow this app to make and manage calls from my phone.
Phone Link for iOS does not currently relay an iPhone call to a Bluetooth headset connected to the PC. Other Bluetooth devices, including mice, can also affect call quality. Disconnect unnecessary Bluetooth accessories temporarily if audio is poor.
Do not rely on Phone Link as your primary telephone service or for emergency calls. Bluetooth failures, low battery, power loss, and other problems can interrupt a call.
View iPhone notifications in Windows
- Open Phone Link.
- Select Notifications.
- Select Get Started.
- Follow the prompts to grant notification permissions.
- On the iPhone, open Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the ⓘ button beside the paired PC.
- Enable Share System Notifications.
Windows notification controls are available at:
Phone Link > Settings > Features > Notifications
You can display and dismiss iPhone notifications from the PC. Notification synchronization can stop if Share System Notifications is disabled, Bluetooth is turned off, the iPhone leaves Bluetooth range, the PC enters Battery saver mode, or Focus Assist/Do Not Disturb suppresses notifications.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Notifications operate independently of calls and messages. For example, calls and messages may continue working even when notification synchronization has failed.
Fix QR-code pairing problems
If the QR code process fails or the devices appear paired but Phone Link does not synchronize, remove the connection from both devices rather than only from Windows.
Rank #4
- This Bluetooth adapter for PC utilizes the latest Bluetooth 6.0 EDR technology, delivering faster data transfer speeds, seamless high-quality audio/video streaming, and efficient large-file transfers.
- Up to 5 Devices Sync Connected: This Bluetooth dongle for PC supports up to 5 different types of Bluetooth devices to be connected at the same time without interfering with each other, such as Bluetooth mouse/keyboard/mobile phone/headphones, etc. Note: If Bluetooth audio devices of the same type (such as speakers/headphones) are connected, only one device can play music.
- Ultra-High Data Transfer Speeds: With Bluetooth 6.0 technology, this bluetooth dongle will bring us a faster speed experience. And Bluetooth 6.0 is backward compatible with Bluetooth5.4/5.3.
- EDR and BLE Technology - This Bluetooth dongle is equipped with enhanced data rate and Bluetooth low energy, it wil optimize energy.
- Plug and Play: The Bluetooth receiver is developed for Windows systems only and does not support other systems. No driver installation is required under Windows 11/10/8.1. NOTE: Linux and MacOS , Win 7 System are NOT supported.
- On the PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
- Select the iPhone and choose Remove device.
- On the iPhone, open Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the ⓘ button beside the PC.
- Select Forget This Device.
- Turn Bluetooth off on both devices.
- Wait 10 seconds.
- Turn Bluetooth back on.
- Open Phone Link and select Try pairing again.
Removing the iPhone only from Windows Bluetooth settings leaves the old relationship on the iPhone and can prevent calls, messages, and notifications from synchronizing correctly.
If the pairing codes repeatedly fail, more than three failed code-matching attempts can automatically block the linking attempt. Close and reopen Phone Link, then start setup again.
Recommended Free Tools
Remove an iPhone from Phone Link
Remove it from both sides of the connection:
On the iPhone
- Open Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the ⓘ button beside the PC.
- Select Forget This Device.
In Windows
- Open Phone Link.
- Open Settings.
- Select My Devices.
- Select the iPhone.
- Select Remove.
Optional: show mobile-device information in the Start menu
Some Windows 11 installations have a separate mobile-device companion in the Start menu. Microsoft is rolling this feature out gradually, so it may not be available on every PC.
Microsoft lists Windows 11, Phone Link version 1.25032.82.0, a Microsoft account, and an iPhone-PC Bluetooth LE connection as requirements. For connected iPhones, the Start menu companion can show battery and connection status, recent activities, and file-sending options. The dossier does not confirm that this feature shows messages or calls.
To check for it, open:
Settings > Personalization > Start > Show mobile device in Start
This is a separate Start-menu companion feature, not a replacement for the standard Phone Link setup.
FAQ
Does Phone Link for iPhone require the same Wi-Fi network as the PC?
No. The basic iOS experience uses Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy. The iPhone and PC do not need to be on the same Wi-Fi network.
Best Value
- Bluetooth 5.4 dongle: Applies the latest Bluetooth 5.4+EDR technology, compatible with Bluetooth 5.3/5.2/4.2/4.2 LE/4.0/2.1+EDR, and supports Dual mode (BR/EDR+ Bluetooth Low Energy) to achieve low energy consumption and high speed. Quick response and better anti-interference.
- Plug & Play: USB wireless Bluetooth is not limited by network and location, no need to install drivers, just plug the USB wireless adapter into your computer, you can use it directly. You can use the Bluetooth function at any time. Greatly improve your work efficiency and save your time.
- Long Range Bluetooth Adapter: The USB Bluetooth 5.4 dongle uses Class 1 radio technology, equipped with extra long antenna, and the transmission range in the open area can reach 500ft/150m, Bluetooth connections are no longer affected by distance. Note: The actual transmission range will be affected by physical obstructions and wireless interference.
- Fast Transmission Rate: This upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 adapter features EDR technology and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) configuration up to 3Mbps, which greatly improves transmission rates and reduces the loss of transmission efficiency due to interference in the 2.4GHz band. Enables fast, no delay wireless data connections between your computer and Bluetooth devices.
- System Support: The upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 dongle has a wide range of applications. You can connect up to 5 devices at the same time using Bluetooth wireless. Such as Bluetooth speakers,keyboards,headsets,mice, and Bluetooth printers,etc. Only supports Windows 11/10/8.1, Not compatible with Mac OS, Linux,car stereo systems,XBOX,ps4 or TVs.
Do I need to install Link to Windows on my iPhone?
No. Microsoft’s standard Phone Link pairing flow does not require the Link to Windows app, although the app is available as an optional download.
Can Phone Link show old iMessage conversations?
No. Phone Link does not synchronize the iPhone’s existing iMessage history. Its message view is tied to the active Bluetooth session.
Can I reply to group messages from Phone Link?
No. Group-message creation and replies are unsupported. You must use the iPhone to respond to a group conversation.
Why are iPhone notifications not appearing in Windows?
Check that Bluetooth is enabled and the iPhone is nearby, then open Settings > Bluetooth on the iPhone, tap the information button beside the PC, and enable Share System Notifications. Also check Phone Link > Settings > Features > Notifications and make sure Battery saver or Focus Assist is not suppressing notifications.
Can Phone Link send photos or GIFs from an iPhone?
No. Phone Link for iOS does not support sending or receiving images, GIFs, or Memojis.
Can I use a PC Bluetooth headset for an iPhone call?
Phone Link for iOS currently does not relay an iPhone call to a Bluetooth headset connected to the PC. Bluetooth accessories can also interfere with call quality.
The Bottom Line
Phone Link for iOS is useful for basic phone integration: calls, supported SMS messages, contacts, recent calls, and notifications. Pairing depends on Bluetooth rather than shared Wi-Fi, and the iPhone must remain nearby. If you need iMessage history, group chats, media messages, app access, or iPhone photo management, Phone Link does not provide those features.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
