Seamless Messaging: How to Send iMessages from Your Windows PC

Sending and receiving iMessages on an iPhone is seamless, but typing long messages on the small screen can be cumbersome. Fortunately, you can use Microsoft Phone Link or Intel Unison to integrate your iPhone with a Windows PC. These tools enable you to send, receive, and sync texts effortlessly between your devices.

However, before diving into the process, it’s essential to know that both apps require Windows 11. If you are ready to get started, follow this step-by-step guide to simplify your texting experience on a larger screen.

Option 1: Using Microsoft Phone Link

Microsoft’s Phone Link app is a built-in Windows tool that connects your iPhone to your PC. This app allows you to view, send, and reply to messages directly from your computer. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Devices

To begin, ensure your devices meet all the requirements:

1. Check Your iPhone’s iOS Version:
   First, verify that your iPhone is running iOS 14 or higher.
   • Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
   • Tap General and select Software Update.
   • If an update is available, install it. Otherwise, the screen will confirm that your iOS is up to date.
2. Enable Bluetooth on Your iPhone:
   Next, ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
   • Go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle it to “On.”
3. Update Windows 11:
   Since Phone Link works only with the latest version of Windows, it’s crucial to check for updates.
   • On your PC, open Settings and select Windows Update.
   • Click Check for Updates and install any pending updates.
4. Update the Phone Link App:
   After updating Windows, confirm that the Phone Link app is up-to-date as well.
   • Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
   • Click the Library icon in the lower-left corner.
   • Click Get Updates to update all installed apps, including Phone Link.

By completing these preparations, you’re now ready to pair your devices.

Step 2: Launch Phone Link

1. Open the Phone Link app from the Start menu.
2. When prompted, select iPhone as your device.

Step 3: Pair Your iPhone and PC

Now, it’s time to link your devices:

1. A QR code will appear in the Phone Link app.
2. Use your iPhone’s Camera app to scan the code.
3. Tap the notification at the bottom of the screen to open the pairing link.
4. You’ll be prompted to download and install the Link to Windows app from the App Store.
5. Open the Link to Windows app and tap Scan QR Code to scan the code again.

At this point, both devices will display pairing prompts. Make sure to select Pair on both your iPhone and PC to establish the connection.

Step 4: Sync Notifications

To complete the setup:

1. Allow your PC to access notifications from your iPhone. When prompted on your iPhone, tap Allow.
2. On your iPhone, go to Bluetooth settings and tap the Info icon next to your PC’s name.
3. Turn on the switches for Show Notifications, Sync Contacts, and Share System Notifications.

By enabling these settings, you’ll ensure that your iPhone’s notifications, including iMessages, sync seamlessly with your PC.

Step 5: Access and Send Messages

Once everything is set up, you’re ready to use Phone Link:

1. Open the Phone Link app on your PC.
2. Click the Messages tab to view recent texts sent to your iPhone.
3. To reply to a message, simply type your response in the text box and click Send.

Additionally, you can start new conversations:

1. Click the New Message icon.
2. Enter a recipient’s name, phone number, or email address.
3. Compose your message and hit Send.

Phone Link ensures that messages sync between your iPhone and PC, so you can switch devices seamlessly.

Option 2: Using Intel Unison to Send and Receive iMessage on Windows

Intel’s Unison app provides a similar experience but offers additional features, such as the ability to insert emojis and paste items from your Windows clipboard. While it’s optimized for newer, Evo-certified laptops, many users have reported success on older PCs. Let’s explore how to set it up.

Step 1: Install Intel Unison

1. Open the Microsoft Store on your PC.
2. Search for Intel Unison and click Install.
3. Once installed, launch the app.
4. Click Accept & Continue to agree to the terms and conditions.

Step 2: Pair Your Devices

1. A QR code will appear on the Unison app screen.
2. Use your iPhone’s Camera app to scan the code.
3. Tap the link to download and install the Unison app from the App Store.
4. Open the Unison app on your iPhone and tap Accept & Continue.

Next, grant the app the necessary permissions:

• Allow access to your contacts, photo library, local network, and Bluetooth.
• At a minimum, you must enable access to contacts to send and receive iMessages.

Finally, scan the QR code displayed on your PC again to confirm the pairing process.

Step 3: Send Messages

With the devices paired, you can now send messages:

1. Open the Intel Unison app on your PC.
2. From the home screen, click Send Messages.
3. Select a contact or manually enter a phone number or email address.
4. Compose your message and click Send.

Step 4: Receive iMessage on Windows

Incoming messages will appear in the Unison app. You can reply directly from your PC, and your messages will sync with iMessages on your iPhone.

Important Considerations in Using iMessage on Windows

While these tools simplify messaging on a PC, it’s important to note a few limitations:

1. Operating System Requirements:
   Both Phone Link and Intel Unison require Windows 11. If you’re using Windows 10, you’ll need to upgrade to use these apps.
2. Performance on Older PCs:
   Intel Unison works best on Evo-certified laptops but may still function on older models. Test it on your device to see if it works.
3. Limited iMessage Features:
   These apps don’t fully replicate iMessage’s advanced features, such as reactions or older thread syncing.

Conclusion

Integrating iMessages with your Windows PC has never been easier, thanks to Microsoft Phone Link and Intel Unison. These apps allow you to send, receive, and sync messages effortlessly, improving your productivity and convenience.

Whether you opt for Phone Link or Unison, both tools offer a user-friendly solution to bridge the gap between iPhone and Windows. Take advantage of these tools today and enjoy the freedom of texting directly from your PC.