I found the missing link between Android, iPhone, and Windows — and it’s an app I almost ignored

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It's the most underrated app I use on my phone

Link to Windows app.
(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

It’s hard to believe that in 2026, so many people are still struggling to transfer files from one device to another. Even though we have access to tools like AirDrop and Quick Share for seamless wireless transfers, they lack the broader compatibility I need when switching from Android to iPhone — and vice versa.

Since I test the best phones for a living, I’m constantly switching devices and find it incredibly frustrating to share files not just phone-to-phone, but also to my laptop. Since I stumbled upon this app, however, it has made this once arduous task effortless. In fact, it's one of the most underrated apps I've used in recent memory.

But there’s so much more to this handy app, like allowing me to access all of my phone’s apps directly on my computer. It’s a total game-changer — and to think, I almost ignored it.

Wireless transfers made easy

Link to Windows app.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

The app I’m referring to is Link to Windows. If I recall correctly, my HP all-in-one PC had a peculiar icon in the taskbar that I never gave much thought to. Then one day, I hovered my mouse over it — and doing so changed everything.

Above all, Link to Windows makes wireless file transfers between my phone and computer a breeze. In the past, I would rely on the usual wired method. While that's not terrible in itself, it’s still one extra step I’d like to remove.

After setting up Link to Windows, I’m able to send files from my Windows PC simply by right-clicking a file and selecting the “Send to My Phone” option. Conversely, I can do the same on my Android phone once the feature is activated through the Quick Panel.

Unfortunately, the only limitation is that it can only transfer one file at a time. I can’t yet send a batch of files through Link to Windows, but I hope future updates will enable that capability. Nevertheless, the current implementation makes the process incredibly intuitive.

Running apps from my phone

Link to Windows app.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

Another powerful feature of Link to Windows is the ability to run my phone’s apps directly on my desktop PC. It essentially projects the Android interface onto my computer, much like how Android Auto projects itself onto a car’s infotainment system.

The beauty of this setup is that I can keep my phone in my pocket and still access all of its functions through my PC — including the ability to respond to text messages and place phone calls. This is very similar to the Samsung DeX experience found on many of the best Samsung phones, as it allows me to run multiple apps simultaneously.

Link to Windows app.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

This is incredibly effective for boosting productivity. I can stay focused on my computer for work, while maintaining direct access to my phone. Even distractions such as playing my favorite mobile games on my Windows PC, show just how robust Link to Windows is as a companion tool.

While this may not apply to everyone, I really love how Link to Windows supports multiple devices. For example, I’ve configured my HP all-in-one computer to work with both my Galaxy Z Flip 7 and my OnePlus 15 via Link to Windows. And if that’s not enough, I can set up Link to Windows on multiple computers as well since everything is tied to my Microsoft account.

And yes, it works with iPhone

Link to Windows screenshot.

(Image credit: Future)

The last thing you might want to know is if it supports the iPhone? The short answer is yes, but the functions are pale in comparison to Android. The only functions I have at my disposal are message replies and making phone calls — and that’s about the extent of it. There’s no app support or device projection unfortunately with iOS, so it’s a limitation you should know.

However, transferring files to and from my iPhone to my Windows PC is just as simple. And for that, I couldn’t be happier because I don’t use a Mac to make use of AirDrop.

Bottom line

Link to Windows app.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

It’s easy to overlook the icons that come pre-installed on our PCs, but I can’t believe I’ve ignored Link to Windows for what seems like ages — and that was a massive mistake on my part. In a world where we’re constantly juggling multiple ecosystems, this app serves as the bridge that finally brings Android, iPhone, and Windows into the same conversation.

Even though it isn't perfect, the sheer convenience of copying a photo from my phone to my desktop, or replying to a text while my phone stays in my pocket, is exactly the kind of productivity I crave. Whether you’re a power user, or just someone tired of emailing files to yourself, Link to Windows is the ultimate productivity tool that’s hiding in plain sight.

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John Velasco
John Velasco
Senior Channel Editor for Phones

John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.

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