New integration lets Windows manage Android files wirelessly

In brief: Microsoft users envious of nan seamless integration betwixt iPhones and Macs should cheque retired a caller characteristic successful nan Windows-Android ecosystem, which marks a important measurement guardant successful Redmond's efforts to span nan spread betwixt mobile and desktop platforms.

Microsoft has started rolling retired a caller characteristic that allows Windows users to entree their Android phone's retention straight via File Explorer. The institution informed Windows Latest that this integration began successful October and is now disposable for some Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.

Known arsenic Android successful File Explorer, nan feature is portion of nan broader Manage Mobile Devices functionality and is managed by nan Cross-Device Experience Host component, which is updated done nan Microsoft Store.

With this integration, users tin wirelessly browse, manage, and transportation files from their Android devices straight wrong nan Windows File Explorer interface – nary USB relationship required.

To usage nan feature, devices must meet definite requirements. It is compatible pinch Android 11 aliases later, and users request type 1.24071 aliases newer of nan Link to Windows app connected their Android device. Additionally, nan latest updates must beryllium installed for either Windows 11 aliases Windows 10, and nan Cross-Device Experience Host constituent should beryllium up to date.

Once installed, users will spot their Android telephone look arsenic a shortcut successful nan File Explorer sidebar. Clicking this shortcut opens nan phone's soul storage, allowing users to browse folders and files conscionable arsenic they would pinch a USB-connected device.

Users tin rename, copy, move, and delete files connected their Android instrumentality straight from their Windows PC. Deleted files are moved to a caller Recycle Bin files connected nan Android device, wherever they stay for 30 days earlier being automatically deleted.

One standout characteristic is transportation speed. Windows Latest reports that record transfers tin scope up to 1.2 Gbps complete Wi-Fi, making it a viable replacement to wired connections for transferring ample files.

The characteristic besides integrates pinch Windows Search, enabling users to hunt for files stored connected their Android devices straight from nan taskbar.

It's worthy noting that while Android successful File Explorer complements nan existing Phone Link app, it operates independently, truthful users don't request Phone Link progressive to usage it.

The rollout is staged, truthful not each users whitethorn spot nan characteristic immediately.