Microsoft is rolling out new features to Windows 11’s File Explorer through internal channels, the company announced on July 25. With the introduction of this feature, users will be able to view their Android smartphones in File Explorer when they connect wirelessly through Windows 11 File Explorer. Link to Windows app The development builds on previous server-side additions for Android smartphones that allow users to send text messages to Copilot, Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, and send messages to their phone’s inbox.
Windows 11 File Explorer Update
Microsoft announced in a blog post that the new features in Windows 11’s File Explorer are available to users registered as Windows Insiders across all Windows Insider channels. By wirelessly connecting an Android smartphone to a PC via the Link to Windows app, users can browse files, folders and media on the phone via File Explorer.
In addition to viewing functions, you can open, rename, delete files from your device and transfer/copy files from your PC to your smartphone and vice versa. However, there are requirements to use this feature.
How to use it
According to Microsoft, users should:
Have a smartphone with Android 11.0 or higher
Your phone has Link to Windows beta installed (version 1.24071 or later).
A computer running Windows 11 and enrolled in the Windows Insider program
Choose one of the four Windows 11 Insider channels
After the above conditions are met, users can go to their PC Settings and go to the Bluetooth & Devices tab. Next, you need to select the “Mobile Device” option and allow your PC to access your Android smartphone. You will see a switch to enable display in File Explorer.
According to Microsoft, if users don’t see this option, the feature may not be available yet. Implemented, but still in testing. Therefore, problems may arise when using this feature. Known issues include sync issues, auto-delete not working, and more.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
