Microsoft is adding new power management features to its Link to Windows app for Android. The updated app now lets users shut down, restart, or put their PC to sleep from their phone. Users enrolled in the app’s beta testing program can already access the new feature in the latest build.
Link to Windows on Android gets remote shut down and restart control for PC
Microsoft added the new features in Link to Windows beta version 1.26101.103.0. Until now, the app served as a useful companion for those using a Windows-powered laptop alongside their Android phones. It let users access calls, messages, photos, and transfer files between the app and a Windows computer seamlessly.
The earlier version of the app allowed users to remotely lock their PC. However, in the latest beta build, the company is replacing the “Lock PC” button with a new “Power” button. Tapping it opens a menu with four options: Lock PC, Sleep PC, Shut down, and Restart. Further, the tech giant has added a warning message before the computer carries out these actions. The prompt reminds users that shutting down or restarting their PC could result in the loss of unsaved work.
Android app can also handle pending Windows updates
Apart from the new power controls, the updated Link to Windows app also lets users install pending Windows updates. Just like they would on Windows, the app lets user choose whether they want to update and shut down or restart their PC. Selecting either option will close all running applications. The system will then install the latest build and complete the chosen power action. Basically, users can now take care of updates remotely. They will no longer have to leave updates unfinished until they return to their computer.
Remote power controls are not anything new to Windows computers. Certain third-party apps already let users shut down or restart their PC from Android phones. Its addition to Link to Windows, however, makes the option more convenient for people who already use the app to connect their Android phone to a PC. Users no longer need to rely on third-party apps. They can now access basic power functions through the same app they use for other tasks.
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