Expanded Accessibility of Instant Hotspot
Microsoft's Phone Link app has recently expanded its capabilities beyond the Samsung ecosystem, introducing the Instant Hotspot feature to select OnePlus devices. This development marks a significant shift in Microsoft's strategy, as the company pivots from its past ambitions in mobile operating systems to enhancing the synergy between Android smartphones and Windows PCs.
Initially launched in October 2022, the Instant Hotspot feature was designed to streamline the process of connecting a Windows PC to the Internet via a mobile hotspot created by a smartphone. Previously, this functionality was exclusive to Samsung devices, but Microsoft has now opened the door for users of certain OnePlus models, including the OnePlus Open and OnePlus 12, to enjoy this convenience.
The Instant Hotspot feature eliminates the need for manual activation of the hotspot on the phone and the tedious task of entering a password on the PC. Instead, users can seamlessly connect their devices, making it an ideal solution for those who require Internet access while on the move.
However, not all Android devices are compatible with this feature. According to Microsoft, Instant Hotspot is available only on Windows 11 PCs linked to Samsung devices running One UI 4.1.1 or later. This limitation arises from Android's restrictions, which permit only system applications to initiate a tethered hotspot. Samsung's integration of Microsoft's Link to Windows Service app within its One UI allows for these privileged functions.
Interestingly, other manufacturers, such as OPPO and OnePlus, also include the Link to Windows Service app in their devices. The recent updates to some OnePlus models have enabled them to support the Instant Hotspot feature, showcasing a gradual expansion of this functionality beyond its original confines.
While the OnePlus 12 has been confirmed to support Instant Hotspot, the OnePlus 10 Pro does not, despite both devices running the same version of the Link to Windows app. This discrepancy highlights the importance of the Link to Windows Service app's version, which varies between devices and may dictate the availability of certain features.
In addition to Instant Hotspot, devices equipped with the Link to Windows Service app gain access to other functionalities, such as app streaming and cross-device copy and paste. Nevertheless, Samsung retains some exclusive features within the Phone Link app, including the ability to view recent apps and websites and stream applications without requiring user prompts.
