Microsoft has announced that iPhone users can now access iMessage and make phone calls directly from their Windows PC through Phone Link for iOS. The feature was previously available to Windows Insiders as an early preview, but is now rolling out to all Windows 11 customers in 39 languages across 85 markets.
Previously, iPhone users were not able to stay connected with their friends and family via their PC in the same way that Android users could. This lack of support for Windows may have deterred some consumers from exploring the Windows PC ecosystem, but with the addition of Phone Link, iPhone users will be able to enjoy a more seamless experience when moving between devices.
One benefit for business professionals is that they will be able to respond to texts and track calls more discreetly, such as in a meeting where pulling out an iPhone may seem unprofessional. Additionally, iPhone owners will be able to keep up with calls, texts, and notifications while their phone is charging elsewhere.
The setup process for Phone Link involves pairing an iPhone to a PC over Bluetooth, and granting a set of permissions that allows content to be synced to the PC. Once setup is complete, Phone Link will offer basic support for calls, messages, and contacts, but has some limitations, such as not supporting group messages or media in messages. Messages are session-based, and will only come through when the phone is directly connected to the PC.
Notifications will be delivered to the PC through Windows notifications, allowing users to check, pin, and dismiss them from the Windows interface. Phone Link requires an iPhone with iOS 14 or higher, Windows 11, a Bluetooth connection, and the latest version of the Phone Link app, which is pre-installed with Windows 11. Support is not yet available for iPad or MacOS.
The addition of iMessage to Windows is a significant development for users who rely on Apple’s messaging platform. It also strengthens Microsoft’s ecosystem by providing a more comprehensive user experience that will appeal to a wider audience.
