Windows 11 will soon add your Android phone to File Explorer

Microsoft has started testing a new way to access your Android phone directly from File Explorer in Windows 11. Windows Insiders are It is now possible to test this new featurewhich allows you to wirelessly browse folders and files on your Android phone.

File Explorer integration means your Android device appears like a regular USB device on the left side, with the ability to copy or move files between a PC and Android phone and rename or delete them. It’s certainly a lot faster than using the existing Phone Link app.

You’ll need a device running Android version 11 or higher, be part of the Windows Insider program, and be part of the beta version of the Link to Windows app for the feature to work now. All four Windows Insider channels are getting access to test this, including the Release Preview ring – which suggests it won’t be long before everyone running Windows 11 can access this new feature.

You can enable this File Explorer feature by navigating to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices and selecting the manage devices section to allow your PC to connect to your Android phone. A prompt will include an access button in File Explorer, along with the usual selections for notifications and camera access.