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Quick Guide to Viewing Android Photos and Screenshots as Notifications on Windows 11

2024/02/26
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Enable ‘Allow this PC to access your mobile devices’
  • Install the Link to Windows app on your Android device
  • Notifications will open directly in the Snipping Tool

Unlock the Power of Accessing Android Photos on Windows 11

As technology continues to blend the lines between mobile and desktop devices, the ability to access and edit your photos seamlessly across platforms is becoming essential. In this guide, we will explore how to utilize Windows 11’s new feature that allows you to instantly access your Android phone’s photos directly on your PC.

How to Instantly Access and Edit Your Android Phone’s Photos and Screenshots on Windows 11

To get started, you need to ensure you meet the following requirements before proceeding to the setup steps.

Requirements

  1. Membership in the Windows Insider Canary channel (build 26016 or higher).
  2. app installed on your Android device.

Step 1: Enable the Manage Devices Feature

  1. On your PC, launch the Settings app by pressing Win+I and navigate to Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices.
  2. Switch on Allow this PC to access your mobile devices.
  3. Click on Manage devices.
  4. If prompted, complete the ‘Cross Device Experience Host’ update from the Microsoft Store.

Step 2: Link Your Phone with Windows Using Phone Link

  1. In the ‘Manage mobile devices’ section, click on Add device.
  2. A QR code will be displayed. Open the ‘Link to Windows’ app on your Android device and choose to sign in using the QR code.
  3. Scan the QR code shown on your PC screen.
  4. Input the code provided by the ‘Manage mobile devices’ screen into the Android app.
  5. Grant permissions to allow Link to Windows to access your photos and send notifications.
  6. Once finished, press ‘Done’ on your phone.
  7. Ensure that the option to Get new photo notifications is enabled for your device in the Manage mobile devices window.

Step 3: Access Recent Photos Instantly and Edit Them in the Snipping Tool

Your Android device is now configured to send photo notifications to your PC. Whenever you take a picture or screenshot, it will arrive as a notification.

Clicking on the notification will automatically launch the image in the Snipping Tool, where you can view, edit, save, and share as needed.

Summary

In this guide, we have explored the exciting new feature in Windows 11 that allows users to directly access and edit their Android phone’s photos. By following the outlined steps, you can ensure a smooth connection and seamless photo management experience.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has empowered you to connect your Android device to your Windows 11 PC effectively. Enjoy the benefits of instant access to your photographs and a more integrated workflow between your devices!

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