Windows 11 is testing a seamless handoff for Android apps
Microsoft is piloting a Windows 11 feature that lets you pick up activity from certain Android apps right on your PC. The first integration is with Spotify, and the rollout is gradually reaching Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels.
What’s new
- When you start playing a song in Spotify on your Android phone, Windows 11 can surface a “Resume from your phone” notification on your PC.
- Selecting “Continue on this PC” opens the Spotify desktop app if installed, or directs you to install it, so playback continues on your computer.
- The capability is built on Phone Link, Microsoft’s system for connecting Android phones with Windows PCs.
- Connect your Android phone to your PC using Phone Link.
- Phone Link watches for supported app activity on your phone.
- When eligible activity is detected, Windows posts a handoff-style prompt in the notification center to continue on the PC.
- Windows 11 PC enrolled in the Dev or Beta Channel (Insider builds).
- Android phone paired with the PC via Phone Link.
- Spotify installed and signed in on the PC for one-click continuation; otherwise, you’ll be prompted to install it.
- Early access feature; availability will vary as Microsoft expands flighting.
- This is a step toward tighter cross-device continuity for Windows and Android, echoing the “start here, finish there” experience Apple users know from Handoff.
- If broadened beyond Spotify, Windows could offer more fluid transitions between phone and PC for media, messaging, and other everyday tasks.
- Spotify is the only supported app in this initial test.
- The prompt is focused on resuming activity in the desktop app, not launching or mirroring arbitrary Android app sessions.
- Rollout is controlled and incremental, so not all Insiders will see it immediately.
- Update to the latest Dev or Beta Channel build of Windows 11.
- Install or update Phone Link on your PC and Link to Windows on your Android phone.
- Pair your devices and enable notifications in Phone Link settings.
- Start playback in Spotify on your phone; look for “Resume from your phone” on your PC and choose “Continue on this PC.”
- Phone Link already handles notifications, calls, messaging, and app access for many Android phones. Adding activity resumption tightens the loop, reducing friction when switching contexts.
- Microsoft’s approach relies on supported desktop counterparts (like Spotify) rather than full session handoff from the mobile app. It’s a pragmatic first step that could grow to include more apps and scenarios over time.
- Additional supported apps beyond Spotify.
- More granular controls for which app activities can trigger resume prompts.
- Expansion from Insiders to the general Windows 11 user base once testing stabilizes.
Source: Bloom Pakistan Windows 11 to Let Users Resume Android Apps Seamlessly on PC