Samsung has long been at the forefront of integrating mobile and desktop experiences, particularly through its support for Microsoft’s Windows Phone Link feature. This functionality allows users to seamlessly check notifications, respond to messages, browse their phone’s photo gallery, and stream applications directly onto their computer screens. However, the introduction of One UI 6.0 brought a cumbersome requirement that necessitated multiple taps to initiate screen mirroring, which understandably led to user frustration.
One UI 6.1.1 Makes App Screen Mirroring Easier on Windows Computers
With the recent rollout of the One UI 6.1.1 update, Samsung has addressed this inconvenience. Launched alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, this update eliminates the need to tap the ‘Start Now’ button each time an app is streamed from a Samsung device to a Windows computer. Previously, users were required to tap this button every time they opened an app, a change introduced with One UI 6.0 after Google tightened security by closing a loophole in the MediaProjection API.
This alteration was viewed as a necessary security measure by Google, but it inadvertently complicated the user experience. Fortunately, Microsoft has adapted its Windows Phone Link app to work with the new Companion App Streaming API, which allows for a more streamlined process. Unlike the previous method, which required repeated permissions, this new approach simplifies app streaming, making it more user-friendly.
In contrast, ChromeOS has maintained a more straightforward approach to app streaming from Android devices, utilizing the Companion App Streaming APIs and Cross-Device Services app without requiring repeated permissions. While some other Android manufacturers have implemented firmware modifications to allow for one-time permissions, such solutions may pose long-term security risks.
As the One UI 6.1.1 update continues to roll out to additional Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets, users can look forward to a more efficient experience when streaming apps on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. However, for security purposes, users will still need to unlock their devices to initiate the connection.
Image Credits: Android Authority, Samsung
