Windows 11 has a new instant hotspot feature: What is it

Microsoft released a new preview build for the Windows 11 operating system for the members of the Windows Insiders programme on October 27. This new Windows 11 update adds a handy feature that will help users to launch the hotspot on smartphones directly from their PC or laptop. However, it is important to note that the “Phone Link” feature, is compatible with a limited number of Android devices. With this new feature, PCs and laptops running on Windows 11 will be able to detect paired smartphones and will also be able to turn on their hotspot for on-the-go internet connectivity. Currently, Microsoft is testing this feature with Windows Insider and is expected to arrive for the general public in the coming months.
Windows 11 Phone Link feature: Availability and requirements
The tech giant has mentioned that the Phone Link feature will be exclusive to Samsung Galaxy devices. To access this feature, users will need a Galaxy smartphone running One UI 4.1.1 or above (like Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, Fold 3, Fold 4, etc.) and will need a PC that supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Moreover, users need to be on Windows 11 version 22H2 Build 22621 or above along with Phone Link version v1.22082.111.0 or higher to be able to use this new feature. Most importantly, users also need to pair their Windows and Android devices for Phone Link to work.
Windows 11 Phone Link feature: How will it work
Microsoft has explained that the new Windows 11 feature will help users to securely start and connect to their phone’s Wi-Fi network without touching the handset. When the phone is within range, it will appear on your PC’s Wi-Fi network list. Here, users can turn on and connect their PCs to their phone’s hotspot with a single click. This change will prevent users from typing passwords or searching for the hotspot settings on their mobile.

Similar features from other companies
The Phone Link feature on PCs has been available on other platforms as well. Apple supports the same feature with macOS and iPhones while Samsung users can also turn on their phone’s hotspot from another Android device using their Samsung account. Apart from this, Google also supports this feature on Chromebooks and it works with most Android phones