These 4 apps are for linking your phone and PC efficiently without having to use the USB cords for the connections.
Whenever you pick up your phone while working on your PC, it disrupts your focus. Consider using these excellent apps to connect your devices and minimize those frequent interruptions.
GlideX
GlideX offers many of the same features as Phone Link, such as file transfers and device mirroring.
However, some capabilities require the Exclusive version for Asus devices. What sets GlideX apart is its ability to transform any Android or iOS device into a secondary display.
Additionally, it supports PC-to-PC extension, enabling one laptop’s screen to serve as an extended monitor for another computer.
Created by Asus, GlideX is a versatile cross-platform tool that seamlessly connects through Wi-Fi and USB.
After establishing the connection, your phone or tablet transforms into an extended display where you can drag windows onto it, use touchscreen gestures for interaction, and switch between screens with Alt+Tab just like on a conventional monitor.
The app excels on tablets, offering a near-laptop experience thanks to the larger touchscreen. You can pinch to zoom, tap on-screen elements, and even utilize your computer’s keyboard and mouse for controlling content on the extended display.
The cross-device operation offers features like Mirror mode, which allows you to project your mobile screen onto your PC, and Unify Control, enabling the use of a single keyboard and mouse across multiple devices.
A handy aspect is that the connection remains active even when you minimize the app; this lets you continue using your phone normally while easily switching between apps without losing access to the extended display.
Download GlideX for Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS (Free)
AirDroid
We initially introduced AirDroid in 2012, and over ten years later, it remains pertinent.
It stands out as one of the few options offering a comprehensive web interface that allows you to remotely control your Android phone from a PC virtually anywhere.
The online dashboard allows you to access your phone directly without the need for additional software installation.
It enables functionalities such as viewing and sending SMS messages, managing contacts, transferring files, and remotely accessing your phone’s camera.
The file transfer capability includes support for resumable uploads, ensuring that large video transfers can continue seamlessly even if there is a connection interruption.
AirDroid enables you to fully control your phone remotely, regardless of where you are. However, certain configurations might necessitate root access or an additional helper application on your computer.
The app also offers a Find My Phone feature that includes the option for remote data wiping.
AirDroid’s Notification Mirroring feature allows you to stay updated on your phone’s notifications without having to check it frequently.
You can respond to messages from apps like WhatsApp or dismiss alerts right from your computer. However, you’ll still need your phone for answering calls.
For added functionality, the paid version removes transfer limitations and supports connections with multiple devices.
Download AirDroid for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS (a free version is available with premium options).
Microsoft Phone Link
Over the years, Phone Link has evolved into the essential tool for syncing across devices, linking my smartphone and Windows PC seamlessly.
By connecting your phone using the companion Link to Windows app, you gain access to capabilities that extend far beyond simple notification management.
The application enables you to send and receive text messages straight from your computer, along with access to the complete conversation history.
It also allows you to make and take phone calls while effortlessly viewing photos from your gallery without needing to pick up your device.
The screen mirroring function projects your entire phone interface onto your PC, granting you the ability to use any Android app directly on your computer.
In addition to its standard functions, Phone Link provides a variety of lesser-known features that are worth checking out.
For example, you can declutter your phone by deleting photos directly from the camera roll without having to handle your device physically.
You can also activate Do Not Disturb mode with just one click and use the play sound feature to find a misplaced phone easily.
Additionally, the app offers OCR technology for extracting text from images, which simplifies copying information like phone numbers or addresses from screenshots.
Samsung phones offer exclusive Phone Link features such as Instant Hotspot, which seamlessly connects your PC to your phone’s mobile data.
Additionally, they enable cross-device copy and paste, allowing you to share a clipboard between your phone and computer effortlessly.
Download: Phone Link for Windows, Android, or iOS (Free)
KDE Connect
While Phone Link primarily targets Windows users, KDE Connect provides strong cross-platform support for Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android devices.
It simplifies file transfers by enabling easy exchange of multiple files over a local network without any size restrictions.
The shared clipboard operates seamlessly across different devices and includes features like Remote Input that lets you use your phone as a wireless trackpad and keyboard.
Another standout feature is its custom commands. With just a tap on your phone, you can lock your PC, change the volume, or open applications.
KDE Connect also synchronises notifications so that you can view and dismiss alerts from your phone directly on your computer.
Its versatile plugin system allows you to customise features according to your needs, such as controlling media playback or using your phone as a presentation remote control.
In contrast to Phone Link, KDE Connect may seem less refined on Windows. It lacks some functionalities, such as SMS messaging and call handling, and its setup process often requires additional adjustments, particularly concerning firewalls or network permissions.
Nonetheless, for those seeking greater control and cross-platform flexibility, KDE Connect serves as an excellent alternative to Phone Link.
Download KDE Connect for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, or Android (Free)
Conclusion
Each of these tools has a unique role in connecting your phone to your PC.
Phone Link excels with seamless Windows integration, KDE Connect offers extensive cross-platform compatibility, and AirDroid is perfect for dependable remote access from any location.
GlideX has recently impressed me—I’ve repurposed my old Android tablet as a touch-enabled second monitor instead of letting it collect dust.
I’m using GlideX in conjunction with Phone Link since it suits my needs best, but I recommend experimenting with different combinations to find what works for your workflow.
