GoKawiilWindows 11 Insider build lets taskbar Search open and mirror Android apps
Microsoft's new Insider Experimental Preview Build (26340.9843) allows users to type an app's name into Windows 11's taskbar Search and launch it directly on a connected Android phone, mirroring it on the PC via Phone Link. The same build adds the ability to call, text, or trigger phone actions like Do Not Disturb from Search, currently for Android with iPhone support promised early next year. The feature works with select phones from Samsung, HONOR, OPPO, ASUS, vivo, Xiaomi, iQOO, and Realme.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
This continues Microsoft's broader push this year to tighten integration between Windows 11 and mobile devices, following earlier additions like a Mobile devices tile and improved clipboard syncing. By collapsing a multi-step Phone Link process into a single Search command, Microsoft appears to be lowering friction for cross-device workflows, which could make Windows PCs more appealing to Android users specifically. The staggered iPhone support suggests Apple's more closed ecosystem continues to limit how deeply Microsoft can integrate with non-Android phones.
- Taskbar Search can now open Android apps, mirroring them via Phone Link.
- Search also supports calling, texting, and phone actions like Do Not Disturb.
- iPhone support for these phone-action features is planned for early next year.
Samsung Galaxy S24 — Samsung phones are among the best supported for Windows 11's Phone Link integration, making features like app mirroring and Search-based phone actions work smoothly. If you want to try this new Android-Windows connectivity without compatibility headaches, a Galaxy S24 is a solid pick that pairs seamlessly with your PC.
See Samsung Galaxy S24 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: androidauthority.com, 2026-11-02
Published there as: “Windows 11 now lets you access Android apps straight from Search”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.