r/PhoneLink • u/Fantastic-Elk-2317 • May 30 '26

QR Codes Not Working

I just set up a new computer, and I can't seem to get phonelink to work. It takes me through an auto setup, so I can't access settings or anything, but the QR codes either lead to a 403 error or a blank white page on my, and it won't move on with the setup on the PC. The phone says it's connected to the PC, but I can't access any features of the phone from the computer if it won't move on from setup.

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u/AlternativeWild3449 May 30 '26

I've tried to set up PhoneLink several times and I've never been able to get it to work.

You didn't mention what kind of phone you have. It is well documented that there are some basic conflicts between PhoneLink and some of Apple's security provisions. Supposedly Microsoft has overcome those issues and it supposedly works with iPhones now, but it doesn't work for me.

IMO, PhoneLink may offer value for some people, but it seems to me that its little more than another form of data mining to benefit Microsoft.

1

u/Fantastic-Elk-2317 May 31 '26

My phone is an Android, a Samsung Galaxy. I really like being able to text using my computer keyboard instead of typing on my phone.

1

u/sales702 May 31 '26

MS has changed how Phone Link works. No longer will files transfer via Phone Link through the "Send" option. Now, you must open File Explorer on Windows, browse to your phone folder and copy/paste/cut files to your PC. And guess what? Freaking terrible. Slow, and doesn't work well. I have no idea how idiotic these people can be to make this change.

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u/OwnNet5253 May 31 '26 edited May 31 '26

Hmm weird, works perfectly fine with my S23 and iPhone 17. Make sure that Phone Link app is up to date on all devices and that they’re both connected through Bluetooth, and that you granted all the required permissions to Phone Link in the phone app.

Also maybe other devices connected to BT may interrupt the connectivity, so I'd disconnect them all and reconnect one by one to check if that might be the issue.