The possibility of Make and receive calls from your Windows PC using your Android or iPhone mobile phone Microsoft has revolutionized the way we communicate while working or studying. Microsoft has developed tools that allow you to link both devices and make the most of your workstation, without having to interrupt your activities to answer the phone or search for contacts. In this extensive and detailed tutorial, you'll learn how to configure your computer and smartphone to enjoy all these features, the most advanced options, the available alternatives, and tips to optimize the experience, resolve problems, and ensure your privacy.
What is Phone Link and how does it work?
Application phone link (also known as Mobile Link) is an official Microsoft solution that allows you to establish a direct and secure connection between your Windows PC and your Android or iPhone device. This connection, which can be established via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, gives you access to features such as:
- Make and receive phone calls directly from the PC, using the computer's speakers and microphone.
- View and reply to text messages without having to touch the mobile.
- Access to notifications from your mobile to your Windows desktop, so you don't miss any important notifications.
- Transferring files, images, and multimedia content from phone to PC and vice versa.
- Full contact synchronization, call history and calendar management.
This tool integrates seamlessly with all compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices, with minimal system requirements and setup that takes just a few minutes. Microsoft has been expanding its capabilities to offer an experience that increasingly resembles a complete convergence between mobile and PC.
Requirements for making calls from Windows with your Android or iPhone mobile
- Computer with Windows 10 or 11 updated (from May 2019 update onwards).
- Bluetooth-enabled PCIf your desktop or laptop computer doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, you can use a USB Bluetooth dongle.
- Android Smartphone (version 7.0 or higher) o iPhone with iOS 15 or later.
- Microsoft account active, the same on both devices to ensure full synchronization.
- Necessary apps installed:
- In Windows: phone link (available in the Microsoft Store, usually pre-installed).
- On Android: Link to Windows.
- An iPhone: Link to Windows (you must search for it as such in the App Store).
How to link your Android or iPhone to your PC step by step
- Download and install the corresponding application on both devicesIn many cases, the app comes pre-installed on recent Samsung phones.
- Open Phone Link on your PC. You can search for it from the start menu or open the Microsoft Store and locate it.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account on both devices to ensure complete and secure synchronization.
- Open the Link to Windows app on your mobile, choose the option to connect a new device and start the pairing process.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the PC with your mobile phone's camera.This process speeds up and ensures identification between both devices.
- Accept all permissions and notifications requested by the app, including access to contacts, calls, messages, and notification syncing. For Android, also grant full access to Bluetooth, SMS, and media content; on iPhone, enable Bluetooth contact syncing by going to Settings > Bluetooth > PC name and selecting “Sync Contacts.”
- Confirm Bluetooth pairing between PC and mobileFor calls to work, both devices must be properly connected via Bluetooth, and they must also share the same Wi-Fi network if you're looking for advanced features.
- Complete the process by following the additional on-screen instructions.If there are any pending security or system updates, it's recommended that you complete them before starting calls from your PC.
Once pairing is complete, you'll receive confirmation on both devices and can start receiving and making calls, as well as managing notifications and messages, directly from the Windows desktop.
How to make and receive calls from Windows with your Android or iPhone
Calling is one of Phone Link's most used and appreciated features. The process for making or answering calls from your PC is very intuitive and virtually identical on both Android and iPhone:
- Access the Phone Link app on your Windows PC. Once opened, you will find a tab dedicated to "Calls", with visual access to:
- Dialpad
- Search for contacts by name or number
- recent call history
- Select the contact to call or dial the number using the digital keypadYou can either type the number directly or search through your phone's synced contacts (syncing is done automatically if you granted permission during pairing).
- Click the call icon to start the call. Your PC will use its speakers and microphone to manage the call (if you have headphones connected, you can also use them for added privacy and quality).
- When you receive a call on your mobile, a pop-up window will automatically appear in the corner of your Windows desktop. You can answer or reject the call directly from your PC. You can even select preset messages to quickly reject calls, without having to type anything.
- You can transfer the call to the phone at any time if you need to continue from your mobile (this is especially useful if you have to leave or move away from your desktop).
Call history, contact logs, and additional options (mute, hold, hang up) will be available from the Phone Link interface, turning your computer into a true communications hub.
Additional features: notifications, messages and advanced synchronization
Not only will you be able to make and answer calls, but Phone Link allows you to:
- Receive all mobile notifications on your PC screen, including notifications from WhatsApp, social networks, emails, and third-party apps.
- Reply to SMS messages or even some compatible apps directly from the computer keyboard.
- View call history with details (duration, time, contact, call status) of up to 90 days or 100 records, depending on the system version and configuration.
- Quick transfer of files, photos or screenshots between both devices by dragging and dropping, ideal for those who manage multimedia content.
- Access and synchronization of the contact list: If you enable synchronization, you can search for contacts by name and access them from your PC at any time.
In the case of iPhoneThe process is very similar, although there are some limitations (for example, you can't manage recent calls or delete them directly from your PC). However, receiving and making calls works smoothly as long as you keep the Bluetooth connection active.
Other applications to make calls from your PC (alternatives to Phone Link)
If for any reason you prefer to try other options or are looking for additional functionality, there are third party apps to make calls from your computer that work with different methods:
- AirDroid Cast: This app lets you mirror your phone's screen to your PC and take full control of the device, including making and receiving calls, managing messages, and sharing files. It works on both Android and iOS. Its benefits include: two-way audio transmission, keyboard and mouse control, and multiplatform (even compatible with Mac).
Its use is ideal for those who want to replicate absolutely all the functions of their mobile phone on their PC.
Basic steps of use:- Download and install AirDroid Cast on both devices.
- Select the connection method: wireless (WiFi), AirPlay, or USB cable.
- Grant permissions and follow the instructions to start screen mirroring.
- From the replicated screen, access the dialer and make your calls.
Plus, with AirDroid Cast you can remotely text, reply to messages, and share screens even between devices with different operating systems.
- Google Voice: One of the alternatives for making calls using a toll-free virtual number (mainly in the US and Canada), but it is possible to use it with some tricks and recommendations for international calls.
Simple steps:- Go to voice.google.com from a browser.
- Sign in and set up a Google Voice number (in supported areas).
- Make calls by entering the desired number, either from the browser or from the official app.
It allows you to manage calls, messages and voicemail, although it requires specific registration and configuration.
- Skype or Whatsapp: In addition to video calls and meetings, Skype allows you to make voice calls to landlines and mobile numbers (requires credit for calls outside of Skype).
- Create a Skype account and sign in.
- Add the ID or number of the person you want to call.
- Make individual or group calls with ease.
It is ideal for corporate environments and users who already use Skype regularly.
- Facetime (Apple only)If you're using the Apple ecosystem, you can transfer calls from your iPhone to your Mac, iPad, or even your Apple Watch. For mixed users, AirDroid Cast and Phone Link are the best solutions.
Advanced settings and tips to take advantage of Phone Link
- Customize notifications and privacy: From the Phone Link settings menu on your PC, you can select which apps display notifications on your desktop, control the visibility of messages and calls, and define the depth of synced history.
- Enable/disable contact synchronization: Useful if you share your computer and don't want to expose your entire personal calendar on your PC.
- Easily unlink your mobile from your PC: Go to the "Devices" menu in the Phone Link app, select the connected phone icon, and click "Delete" to preserve your privacy after a session.
- Turn off Bluetooth when you don't want to receive calls, thus avoiding distractions and saving battery on your phone.
- Update applications and systems on both mobile and PC regularly to enjoy all the improvements, new features, and security patches.
- Check and adjust the PC's audio input and output devices (microphone and speakers) to ensure call quality.
- Take advantage of integration with other Windows apps, such as the ability to share files, copy and paste, and transfer screenshots or images from your mobile to your PC by dragging and dropping.
Troubleshooting common problems when making calls from Windows
- Bluetooth Problems: Verify that both devices are visible, activated, and paired correctly. Restarting both devices may resolve connection issues.
- Calls are not heard: Make sure your PC has the correct speakers and microphone selected, and that the volume is turned up.
- The mobile does not pair correctly: Make sure both apps are up to date, that you're signed in with the same Microsoft account, and review the permissions granted.
- History, messages, or notifications do not appear: Review the privacy settings on both your mobile phone and the PC app. Enable contact and notification syncing on both devices.
- Dropped calls or poor quality: Avoid straying too far between Bluetooth-connected devices. The optimal range is 8-10 meters without obstacles. If you're using Wi-Fi, make sure you're connected to the same network.
- Emergency Services Support: Although calls can be made to emergency services, Phone Link is not designed or intended as a substitute for primary telephone services. In critical situations, use your mobile phone directly to secure the call.
- Can I delete call history from my PC? No, you can't manage or delete your history directly from your PC. Only what's available on your phone is synced.
Advantages, limitations and security of the Phone Link system
Among the main advantages of the system, the following stand out:
- Convenience and productivity: Manage your communications without interrupting your work or getting distracted by searching for your phone.
- Time saving: You don't need to search for your phone or unlock it repeatedly.
- Greater privacy: You can answer calls discreetly and use a PC headset.
- Transmission security: All communications (calls and data) travel encrypted via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, without exposing your personal information to the public Internet.
Some limitations to consider:
- Bluetooth dependency: If it is disabled or there is interference, calls may not work.
- Limitation of certain functions in iOS: SMS syncing, extended history, or deleting logs may be restricted depending on your iPhone version and settings.
- Variable compatibility with some less recent Android phones: Check the Microsoft support page to see if your device is fully supported.
Privacy and Disengagement: You can unlink your phone from the Phone Link app at any time, remove access to older devices, and define which notifications appear on your desktop. It's a good idea to review these settings in shared sessions or public devices.
The integration between mobile phones and computers, thanks to Phone Link and alternatives like AirDroid Cast, has changed the way we interact with our devices throughout the day. Being able to make calls, respond to messages, view notifications, and transfer files without leaving your desk increases productivity and convenience, eliminating one of the most common distractions in home, academic, and professional environments. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you can enjoy a fluid, secure, and fully personalized experience when managing your communications from Windows, whether you use Android or iPhone.