New integration lets Windows manage Android files wirelessly

Wireless Android file access for Windows 10 and 11 is rolling out in stages

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In brief: Microsoft users envious of the seamless integration between iPhones and Macs should check out a new feature in the Windows-Android ecosystem, which marks a significant step forward in Redmond's efforts to bridge the gap between mobile and desktop platforms.

Microsoft has started rolling out a new feature that allows Windows users to access their Android phone's storage directly via File Explorer. The company informed Windows Latest that this integration began in October and is now available for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.

Known as Android in File Explorer, the feature is part of the broader Manage Mobile Devices functionality and is managed by the Cross-Device Experience Host component, which is updated through the Microsoft Store.

With this integration, users can wirelessly browse, manage, and transfer files from their Android devices directly within the Windows File Explorer interface – no USB connection required.

To use the feature, devices must meet certain requirements. It is compatible with Android 11 or later, and users need version 1.24071 or newer of the Link to Windows app on their Android device. Additionally, the latest updates must be installed for either Windows 11 or Windows 10, and the Cross-Device Experience Host component should be up to date.

Once installed, users will see their Android phone appear as a shortcut in the File Explorer sidebar. Clicking this shortcut opens the phone's internal storage, allowing users to browse folders and files just as they would with a USB-connected device.

Users can rename, copy, move, and delete files on their Android device directly from their Windows PC. Deleted files are moved to a new Recycle Bin folder on the Android device, where they remain for 30 days before being automatically deleted.

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One standout feature is transfer speed. Windows Latest reports that file transfers can reach up to 1.2 Gbps over Wi-Fi, making it a viable alternative to wired connections for transferring large files.

The feature also integrates with Windows Search, enabling users to search for files stored on their Android devices directly from the taskbar.

It's worth noting that while Android in File Explorer complements the existing Phone Link app, it operates independently, so users don't need Phone Link active to use it.

The rollout is staged, so not all users may see the feature immediately.