Microsoft is expanding Windows 11's Start menu functionality by introducing iPhone integration. This will allow users to access key services directly from their PCs.
This update adds to the site panel introduced in the 2024 update, which previously supported only Android devices. iPhone users can now examine their battery status, check connectivity, read messages, make calls, and track recent activities—all from the Start menu.
The feature is currently available to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels and will be rolled out to all Windows 11 users in the coming months. Users must have Windows 11 Build 4805 (Beta) or Build 26120.3000 (Dev) and Phone Link version 2.24121.30.0 or higher to use it.
A Microsoft account and Bluetooth LE compatibility are also required. However, this feature is unavailable for PCs running the Pro Education or Education SKUs.
This latest update improves Microsoft's Phone Link app, which has been steadily improving iPhone compatibility. In 2023, Microsoft included basic iMessage functionality, allowing users to send and receive texts via Bluetooth.
iPhone users can interact with messages and calls directly from the Start menu, which elevates the need to open the Phone Link app for basic tasks.
Beyond chatting and calls, the redesigned Start menu simplifies file sharing between iPhones and Windows PCs. Microsoft had previously tested iPhone file transfers in December, and now users can quickly upload photos and documents using the native Windows 11 "Share" feature.
Microsoft's Adaptive Cards technology powers the Start menu’s sidebar panel, which also supports Windows widgets. If widely embraced, this might lead to third-party widgets, further expanding the Start menu's functionality. Users who want a cleaner appearance can turn off the sidebar by going to Settings > Personalization > Start.
With this upgrade, Microsoft is transforming Windows 11 into a more seamless hub for Android and iPhone users, bridging the gap between PCs and mobile devices like never before.