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A laptop displaying a Windows screen with two smartphones placed on its keyboard and side.

Microsoft is introducing a new feature in Windows 11 called "Cross Device Resume," designed to enhance the continuity between mobile devices and PCs. This functionality allows users to seamlessly transition their activities from smartphones or tablets to their Windows 11 computers, mirroring Apple's Handoff feature in macOS.
The "Cross Device Resume" feature was unveiled during a session at Microsoft Build 2025 by Aakash Varshney, a senior product manager at Microsoft. In the demonstration, Varshney showcased how users can start an application on their mobile device and continue the same task on their PC without interruption. For instance, if a user begins listening to music on Spotify on their phone, a subtle badge appears on the app's taskbar icon on their Windows 11 PC. Clicking this badge opens the app on the PC, allowing the user to resume their session seamlessly.
This initiative is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to create a cohesive ecosystem across devices. Previously, the company explored similar functionalities with "Project Rome" in Windows 10, aiming to enable developers to build apps that operate across multiple devices. However, adoption of Project Rome was limited. The introduction of "Cross Device Resume" in Windows 11 signifies a renewed commitment to providing users with a fluid and integrated experience across their devices.
The "Cross Device Resume" feature is expected to support a variety of applications, including media players, document editors, and web browsers, enhancing productivity and user convenience. By bridging the gap between mobile and desktop environments, Microsoft aims to offer a more unified and efficient user experience.
As this feature rolls out, users can anticipate a more interconnected workflow, reducing the friction often associated with switching between devices. This development aligns with the broader industry trend of creating seamless cross-device experiences, catering to the evolving needs of users in a multi-device world.

Source: NewsBytes Microsoft's upcoming feature lets your PC and phone talk seamlessly
 

A smartphone displaying multiple apps stands on a wooden table in front of a monitor with a purple abstract wallpaper.

Microsoft is introducing a new feature in Windows 11 called "Cross Device Resume," designed to enhance the integration between Android smartphones and Windows PCs. This functionality allows users to seamlessly continue activities from their Android devices on their Windows computers, mirroring Apple's Handoff feature.
During the Build 2025 conference, Aakash Varshney, Microsoft's Senior Product Manager of Cross Devices and Experiences, showcased this feature. When using supported Android applications, a badge appears next to the app's icon on the Windows PC taskbar. Clicking this badge resumes the activity from the mobile version of the app. For instance, if a user pauses a song on Spotify on their Android device, they can continue listening from the same point on their PC by clicking the badge.
Initially, Microsoft plans to roll out Cross Device Resume via OneDrive, with taskbar integration to follow. Spotify and WhatsApp are expected to be among the first applications to support this feature. This development is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to create a more cohesive ecosystem between Windows and mobile devices, aiming to provide a user experience comparable to Apple's Continuity.
In January, Microsoft enhanced its Phone Link app to improve connectivity between Windows 11 PCs and both Android and iOS devices. This update enabled users to transfer files, manage calls, and send text messages directly from their PCs. While Microsoft's integration efforts are still evolving, features like Cross Device Resume signify a significant step toward a more unified user experience across devices.
The Build 2025 presentation also highlighted Microsoft's plans to streamline file and link sharing across applications and devices. Soon, users will be able to share content with contacts across multiple platforms with just a few clicks, further enhancing productivity and collaboration.
As Microsoft continues to develop and refine these features, users can anticipate a more integrated and seamless experience between their Android devices and Windows PCs, bridging the gap between mobile and desktop environments.

Source: TechSpot New Windows feature would let you resume Android apps on your PC where you left them
 

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