Microsoft has begun testing a notification preview feature in its Phone Link app for Windows 11, letting users see more information from their Android phone without unlocking it or opening the app.
In experimental Windows 11 build 26300.9032, developers added the ability to view the full text of notifications through the Recent section of the Start menu or the Phone Link interface. When a notification arrives from a social network or messaging app, the message text appears as a tooltip over the desktop interface, reducing the need to check the phone.
Rollout and requirements
The feature is gradually rolling out to Windows Insider Program members on the Experimental channel. It requires Phone Link app version 1.26021.3.0 or later on the computer.
Microsoft engineers said the preview mechanism does not bypass Android's built-in privacy protections. On devices running Android 15 and newer, the content of sensitive notifications will remain hidden unless the user has already set the appropriate permissions on the phone itself.
The feature remains in testing, but its rollout reflects Microsoft's push toward seamless PC and mobile integration as it competes with similar ecosystems from other manufacturers.
