Microsoft added a side panel to the Start menu in the Windows 11 2024 update last year that allowed Android users to get quick access to a phone’s battery status, notifications, messages, calls, and photos. Now, Microsoft is getting ready to bring a similar experience to iPhone owners with Windows 11 laptops or PCs.

Microsoft is adding iPhones to its new Start sidebar, adding file sharing between the new platforms, too. Here's how it works.

A new Windows 11 feature allows iPhone users to see information from their phone within the Windows 11 Start menu. Windows Insiders can test the functionality now and also try the option to share files between a phone and PC through the Start menu.

Microsoft has started testing various improvements to the Phone Link integration in the Windows 11 Start Menu, including an easy way to share files across devices.