Windows 10 surprises with new Android file integration
A new option is coming to Windows systems, including the already ageing Windows 10. This involves integrating the system's File Explorer with a connected Android phone. Users can browse documents from their smartphones using the Link to Windows app without needing a USB cable.
The new integration, set to arrive for both Windows 10 and 11, is reported by Windows Latest. While integrating Explorer with the storage of connected smartphones within the new Windows 11 is not surprising—being an announced and expected feature—it may pleasantly surprise in the context of Windows 10. Theoretically, this system should not have received feature updates for some time. However, this situation is different—a new feature is enabled on the server side.
Windows users who browse their Android phones' contents by connecting them with a USB cable to a computer gain a more convenient option. Using the Link to Windows app, they simply need to pair the phone with the computer. Following the Windows update, the phone's storage content will appear in File Explorer, similar to a physically connected USB flash drive, without a cable.
This integration is especially surprising for Windows 10, given its support will end in 2025, and it hasn't received feature updates as a rule for some time. The final security updates for Windows 10 will be available in October 2025. Beyond that point, the system will become more susceptible to cyberattacks.
Users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, although it won't always be possible due to hardware requirements. Microsoft advises those unable to upgrade their system to consider purchasing a new PC compatible with Windows 11 or adopting cloud solutions, especially for business users.
