In a move to enhance cross-device productivity, Microsoft has released a Windows 11 build for Insiders in the Dev Channel, featuring the ability to automatically access and edit photos from an Android smartphone on a Windows 11 PC. The new build number, Windows 11 23619, introduces a function that sends instant notifications to the user's PC when a new photo or screenshot is captured on the linked Android device.
Enhancing the Windows Ecosystem
To use the new syncing capability, users are instructed to navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices and select “Manage devices.” This grants the PC access to the user's Android phone. A necessary update for the ‘Cross Device Experience Host' will become available in the Microsoft Store to enable this functionality.
The feature incrementally replaces the remote capture with Phone Link app, which Microsoft previously announced in September as a rebrand of Your Phone. Microsoft has initiated a gradual rollout to ensure it can monitor feedback and make adjustments as necessary before expanding the feature's availability to all Windows Insiders.
Updates, Fixes, and Ongoing Issues
Additional improvements in Build 23619 address various components such as the Start menu, File Explorer, and Task Manager, aiming to enhance system stability and performance. However, the company has also disclosed known issues with features like Copilot in Windows and Widgets, signaling ongoing development challenges.
Microsoft encourages feedback through the Feedback Hub under Devices and Drivers > Linked devices. This initiative reflects the company's commitment to user-centric development. Continuous updates from the Dev Channel may subsequently be integrated into servicing updates for the released version of Windows 11, denoting that some features tested by Insiders could become standard in future updates for all users.
