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Seamlessly Manage Your Android Files from Windows: New Feature for Windows Insiders

by ailona•

1. ** Summary**: Windows Insiders can now access their Android phones directly through File Explorer, allowing seamless file management between devices. This new feature supports Android 11 and above and requires the BETA version of the Link to Windows app. Users can browse, copy, and manage files wirelessly, enhancing productivity.2. **Bullet Points in HTML**:“`html

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Access Your Android Phone from Windows File Explorer

Exciting news for Windows Insiders! Microsoft has begun rolling out a new feature that allows users to access their Android phones directly from File Explorer. This update provides a seamless way to manage files between your PC and Android device.

What’s New

This new experience enables users to wirelessly browse through folders and files on their Android phones. You can open, copy, rename, move, and delete files directly from your PC. This integration simplifies file management, making it easier than ever to switch between devices.

“You will be able to wirelessly browse through all your folders and files, including media that is on your Android phone.”

Major Updates

To take advantage of this feature, specific requirements must be met. First, your Android phone needs to be running Android 11 or higher. Additionally, you must have the BETA version of the Link to Windows app (version 1.24071 or higher) installed on your phone. Lastly, your PC must be running Windows 11 and be registered for the Windows Insider Program.

To enable this feature, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile Devices and select “Manage devices.” From there, you can toggle the option to show your phone in File Explorer.

What’s Important to Know

While this feature is groundbreaking, it is important to be aware of some known issues. For instance, when you delete files from your phone via your PC, they are moved to a new Recycle Bin folder on your phone. Currently, these files remain in the Recycle Bin for only five days, despite what the dialog indicates.

“Occasionally, deleted files in the new Recycle Bin folder on your phone may not appear in File Explorer on your PC.”

Additionally, syncing issues may arise, where operations performed on phone files from your PC do not reflect back on the phone. If you encounter this, logging out and back into your Windows account may serve as a temporary fix.

As always, Microsoft encourages users to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub to improve this feature further.

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  • Feature rollout is gradual and available to Windows Insiders across all channels.
  • Requires Android 11 or higher and the BETA version of the Link to Windows app.
  • Users can manage files including copying, renaming, and deleting directly from their PC.
  • Deleted files are moved to a Recycle Bin on the phone, with a known issue on deletion timing.
  • Feedback can be submitted via the Feedback Hub under Devices and Drivers.
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    From the Windows Blog