Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →iTechGuides is reader-supported.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
Microsoft Phone Link is a Windows app that connects a PC to a supported Android phone or iPhone so you can use selected phone features on the computer. What you can do depends on your phone’s platform and model, software versions, connection, and the permissions you grant.
What Phone Link does
Phone Link can bring selected phone activity to Windows, including messages, calls, notifications, and recent photos. On some compatible Android devices, it can also let you open and use phone apps from the PC. These capabilities are not available on every phone, and the exact feature set varies by device and software version.
Phone Link is the name of the Windows PC app. On Android, Microsoft’s companion app is called Link to Windows. iPhone pairing works differently and does not use that Android companion app.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Android and iPhone support differ
| Phone | Microsoft’s published baseline | Connection and setup |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Android 10 or later; Windows 10 with the October 2022 update or later, or Windows 11 | Link to Windows; devices should be on the same Wi-Fi network |
| iPhone | iOS 16 or later; Windows 10 with the May 2019 update or later, or Windows 11; Bluetooth Low Energy on the PC | Bluetooth must be enabled on both devices; pairing is QR-assisted |
These are Microsoft’s published baseline requirements, accessed October 7, 2026, not a guarantee that every feature will work on every device that meets them. Microsoft recommends keeping Windows up to date. For current requirements and setup details, see Phone Link requirements and setup.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
- 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
- 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
- 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
- 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
How to link a phone to a Windows PC
Android
- Open Phone Link on the PC and start its Android setup.
- Install or open Link to Windows on the phone, then follow the pairing prompts. You can pair with a QR code or a manual code.
- Use the same Microsoft account on both devices, connect them to the same Wi-Fi network, and approve the permissions requested for the features you want.
iPhone
- Open Phone Link on the PC and choose the iPhone pairing option.
- Follow the QR-assisted Bluetooth pairing steps, with Bluetooth enabled on both devices.
- Grant the requested permissions for notifications, messages, or contacts if you want those features to appear on the PC.
Permissions and privacy
Phone Link only shows features enabled in its settings and supported by the linked phone. Review the app’s feature toggles and the permissions granted on the phone, and disable access you do not want. Microsoft warns that allowing message access for an iPhone can expose sensitive information in Phone Link, including two-factor authentication SMS messages.
If multiple people share a Windows PC, Microsoft recommends that each person use a separate Windows and Microsoft account to help protect their Phone Link data. See Microsoft’s Phone Link FAQ for account guidance.
Rank #2
- SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
- HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
- BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
- COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
- INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.
Why a feature may be missing
- Phone model support: Some capabilities, including Android app access, are limited to select supported devices. Microsoft’s Android app setup guidance explains that availability depends on the device and Phone Link version.
- Platform differences: Android and iPhone do not have identical feature sets or connection methods.
- Permissions or toggles: A feature may not appear if its permission was declined or its Phone Link setting is off.
- Software requirements: Check that Windows and the phone meet Microsoft’s current requirements and are updated.
Microsoft’s supported-device information notes that Phone Link experiences depend on the phone’s operating system and device type.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
- 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
- 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
- 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
- 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Rank #4
- [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
- [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
- [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
- [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
- [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly
Rank #3
- Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
- Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
- Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
- Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
- Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.
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.
