Microsoft rolls out file sharing app for iPhone users

• Published On: 14 December 2024 at 20:43

Microsoft has begun testing new features for its Phone Link app, which will allow iPhone users to share files more easily between their devices and Windows PCs.

The update, which is currently available to Windows Insiders, includes a feature that allows file sharing between iPhones and PCs, similar to how users share files between Android devices and PCs.

The update, version 1.24112.89.0 or higher, includes a new setup dialog that enables users to easily share files between an iPhone and a Windows PC. To share a file from an iPhone, users can use the iOS share sheet to send files to the "Link to Windows" app, which will then allow them to select a Windows device to send the file to.

Users on the PC can also share local files by right-clicking on a file and selecting "Share" followed by "My Phone" to send the file to an iPhone.

While Microsoft has made progress in improving the Phone Link app for both iOS and Android, the iOS version remains limited due to Apple's operating system restrictions. Last year, Microsoft added iMessage integration to Phone Link, allowing users to send and receive messages; however, this feature is limited to one-on-one conversations and does not support group chat.

Furthermore, the app cannot mirror phone apps on a PC like it can on an Android device. To send messages via iMessage, the app must remain open, with Bluetooth and system notifications facilitating communication.

The file-sharing update is currently available for Windows Insiders and is expected to be made available to all Phone Link users in the coming months.