Enhance Productivity: Linking Microsoft Surface with Android Devices

Microsoft continues to enhance the connectivity and productivity of its Surface lineup by introducing robust integration features with Android smartphones. The rebranded Phone Link app, previously known as Your Phone, and its companion app for Android, now titled Link to Windows, offer users a comprehensive way to synchronize their devices. This integration ensures that whether you're on your Surface or your Android phone, your essential data—such as documents, photos, music, and more—is always at your fingertips.

Updated Apps: Phone Link and Link to Windows​

In an effort to streamline and clarify their functionality, Microsoft has renamed the Your Phone app to Phone Link. Similarly, the previously known Your Phone Companion app for Android devices is now Link to Windows. These updates not only offer a refreshed branding but also encompass expanded features that enhance cross-device interactions.

Compatibility and System Requirements​

Microsoft Surface devices running Windows 10 or Windows 11 are fully compatible with this integration. Additionally, phones and mobile devices operating on Android, including the versatile Surface Duo, can be seamlessly linked. It's important to note that some apps and features might not be available in all countries or regions. Users should verify system requirements by visiting the respective download pages on the Microsoft Store or Google Play Store.
Before initiating the linking process, ensure that your Surface device is updated to the latest version of Windows. For Windows 11 users, this can be done by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and checking for updates.

Linking Your Surface with Your Android Device​

The process of connecting your Surface to an Android device is straightforward with the Phone Link app. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Install the Companion App:
   • On your Android device, open the browser and navigate to Access photos from your phone to download the Link to Windows app. For select Samsung devices, this app comes pre-installed and can be accessed directly.
   []Sign In with Your Microsoft Account:
   
   • Launch the Link to Windows app on your Android device and sign in using your Microsoft account. Ensure this is the same account you will use on your Surface.
   []Configure Phone Link on Surface:
   • On your Surface, click the Search icon on the taskbar, type Phone Link, and open the app.
   • Select Android as your phone type and follow the on-screen instructions, which include scanning a QR code displayed on your Android device.
   []Grant Necessary Permissions:
   
   • Your Android device will prompt you to allow access to various data types such as photos, messages, and call history. Granting these permissions is essential for the full functionality of the Phone Link app.

Accessing Your Data Across Devices​

Once linked, the Phone Link app transforms the way you interact with your devices, offering a suite of features designed to keep your workflow uninterrupted:

1. Text Messages and Phone Calls​

• Receive and send text messages directly from your Surface. You can also make and receive phone calls without needing to pick up your Android device.

2. Notifications​

• Stay updated with real-time notifications from your Android device on your Surface, ensuring you never miss an important alert.

3. Photos and Files​

• Access up to your 2,000 most recent photos instantly. Drag and drop photos into documents, presentations, or emails effortlessly.
• Manage your files using the built-in OneDrive integration, providing a centralized location for your documents across devices.

4. Music Streaming​

• Enjoy your favorite music services like Spotify, Pandora, and Amazon Music on both your Surface and Android device. Surface Duo users benefit from pre-installed Spotify on unlocked devices.

5. Microsoft Office Integration​

• Create, edit, and view Office documents on your Surface and continue your work on the go with the same Microsoft account, ensuring consistency and accessibility.

6. Sticky Notes Synchronization​

• Your notes stay synchronized across devices. Start a note on your Surface and access it on your Android phone, making task management more flexible.

7. Web Browsing Continuity​

• Begin browsing a webpage on your Android device using Microsoft Edge and seamlessly continue reading it on your Surface without missing a beat.

8. Email Management​

• Set up your email on both devices using the Mail app on Surface and Microsoft Outlook on Android, ensuring you can access your inbox anytime, anywhere.

9. Task Management with Microsoft To Do​

• Stay organized by managing tasks across your Surface and Android device. Add reminders on one device and receive notifications on the other, keeping your to-do lists up-to-date.

Enhancing Security with Dynamic Lock​

To ensure your Surface remains secure, Microsoft introduces Dynamic Lock. Once your Android device is paired via Bluetooth, enabling Dynamic Lock allows your Surface to automatically lock when you step away with your phone. This feature adds an extra layer of security, protecting your data when you're not in immediate proximity to your device.

Leveraging OneDrive for Seamless Backup and Access​

OneDrive plays a pivotal role in this integration, offering automatic backup and easy access to your photos, music, and files across devices:

• Automatic Photo Upload:
  • Enable Camera Upload in the OneDrive app on your Android device to ensure every photo you take is backed up to OneDrive, accessible from your Surface.
  [

• ]Music File Synchronization:
  • Upload your personal music files from your Surface to OneDrive and enjoy them on your Android device using the OneDrive app.
• Centralized File Access:
  • Access all your OneDrive-stored photos and files directly through File Explorer on your Surface, providing a unified experience across devices.

Getting Started​

To fully utilize these features, ensure that both your Surface and Android device have the necessary apps installed and are updated to the latest versions. By linking your devices, you unlock a new level of productivity and convenience, allowing you to transition seamlessly between your Surface and Android phone without losing momentum in your daily tasks.
Embrace the synergy of your Microsoft Surface and Android device with Phone Link and Link to Windows, and experience a connected ecosystem designed to enhance your digital lifestyle.

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Source: Microsoft Support Using Surface with your Android phone - Microsoft Support