Windows 11 is about to allow users to access files on smartphones through File Explorer

The Redmond company is actively exploring new methods to integrate Android devices even deeper. The upcoming update to the Cross Device Experience Host feature in Windows 11 can help you view and access files in your Android smartphone using File Explorer right on Windows 11.

The toggle responsible for displaying Android smartphones in File Explorer was discovered by tech blogger @PhantomOfEarth on X:

Windows 11 is about to allow users to access files on smartphones through File Explorer Picture 1

When this feature is enabled, Windows 11 prompts you to send a permission request to your smartphone so the operating system can access the files on it:

Select 'Send notification' to send a permission request to your Android device. Open notifications and turn on the toggle next to Link to Windows.

Once authorized, you will be able to access your smartphone from Windows 11 File Explorer.

Deeper integration of Android devices into File Explorer in Windows 11 sounds very convenient and interesting. However, there is not much information about how this feature works. So we will have to wait for more details from Microsoft. You can expect this feature to roll out in beta in the Windows Insiders program before rolling out to all users in the Stable Channel.

David Pac

Update 11 June 2024