Use Windows 11 With iPhone for Calls and Messages

The Download

• Connect iPhone to Windows 11 with Phone Link (for calls and texts) or Apple Devices or iTunes (for backups).

• Phone Link: Select iPhone, scan the QR codeusing your phone, and then follow the prompts to complete the setup.

• Apple Devices and iTunes are similar. Open the app on your PC and plug in your iPhone to get started.

This article explains how to connect iPhone to Windows 11. It covers how this works with Phone Link, Apple Devices, and iTunes.

Use Phone Link to Connect iPhone to Windows 11

Windows 11 has a feature called Phone Link that lets you connect your phone to your computer. Although originally only available for Android phones, it also works with iPhones. Use it to access text messages, see your notifications, and make calls from your computer.

Here's how to link an iPhone to Windows 11 with this app:

Search for and open Phone Linkfrom the Start menu.

Select iPhone.

Use your iPhone to scan the QR code on the screen.

On your phone, tap Pair your devices> Open.

Tap Link to Windowsat the top to head to the App Store.

Install Link to Windows and then open the app.

Tap Continue> Pairwhen asked about Bluetooth, and Allowon any other request, like for notifications.

Tap Pairon your computer and on your phone.

On the iPhone, tap Set up file sharing> Continue.

Sign in to your Microsoft account.

Tap Continueon the computer.

Open Settingson the iPhone and then tap Bluetooth.

Tap the (i)next to your computer.

Switch these on: Show Message Notificationsand Sync Contacts.

Tap Continueon the computer.

You've now connected your iPhone to Windows 11, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts on your PC. Use the dialer to input a number manually or select a contact. You can also click  Messages to view your text messages.

Connect an iPhone to Windows 11 Using Apple Devices or iTunes

The other way to connect iPhone to Windows 11 is with Apple Devices or iTunes. Apple Devices lets you sync music, movies, and shows to your iPhone and back it up, update it, and restore it from your computer. iTunes is available if you want to manage audiobooks and podcasts.

Some steps are similar between these apps, so here's how to get started, no matter which one you choose to use:

Download the app to your computer from the Microsoft Store:

Download Apple Devices

Download iTunes

Connect the iPhone to Windows 11 using its USB cable.

Expert Tip: Note

You might need an adapter, depending on your iPhone's port type and the available USB ports on your computer. For example, some iPhones connect over USB-C. If you have that port on your PC, connect the two with that cable; if not, you'll need a USB-C to USB-A adapter..

If you see a prompt on your computer, such as in iTunes, select Continue.

Expert Tip: Note

You might also need to tap Truston your phone, and then provide your passcode.

Your iPhone now appears on the left side of the app. Select a category, such as Moviesor Music, to view those items that are stored on your phone.

The General(Apple Devices) and Summary(iTunes) sections provide information about your phone and let you back it up directly to your Windows 11 PC.

Related: What to Do When Your iPhone Won't Connect to Your Computer

Frequently asked Questions

Can I add photos from my iPhone to a Windows 11 PC?

Once your iPhone is unlocked, open the Photos app on your PC. Then click Import(found at the top of the window) and select your iPhone from the list.

Why doesn't my PC see the attached iPhone?

Your iPhone has to be on and unlocked so that Windows can see it. If this is the first time you are trying this, you'll need to accept some permissions on the iPhone to allow the phone to talk to the PC.

Read the original article on Lifewire