Beam texts and photos from your phone to your desktop | Komando.com

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Beam texts and photos from your phone to your desktop

By Adam Green, Komando.com

As great as our phones are, the drawback many have is that the screens are just not that big. So while they are fine for making calls, texting, reading social media and performing other tasks, there are many times where we wish we could see everything on a larger screen.

While that may not be a practical idea for anyone when they are on the go, it would be ideal for anyone who often uses their phone while at a work desk. If only there was an easy way to take what is on our phone and transfer it to our computer monitor, right?

Funny you should think that because Microsoft is launching an app that will do exactly that. It is called "Your Phone," and it will allow you to essentially view your phone on your computer.

As long as you have Windows 10

The app, which will be available for both Android and iOS and have different features for each, will work so long as your desktop computer is running Windows 10. With it, at least to start, you will be able to see your notifications, read and respond to text messages and move photos between devices.

In essence, your computer screen will mirror your phone's.

The app has been available for testing to people who are part of the Windows Insider Program, and it is expected to arrive in the Microsoft store the next time a Windows 10 update arrives.

Don't want to wait for the update?

If you are anxious to get your hands on the app you can join the Windows Insider Program. Not only would you have access to Your Phone, but any other apps and tools Microsoft is testing.

To sign up for Windows Insider, follow these steps:

1. Register with the Windows Insider Program with your personal or work account. Use the same account you do for other Microsoft services, like Hotmail. If you do not have a Microsoft account, you will need to create one.
2. Once you are logged in with your account, on a Windows 10 PC go to Start >> Settings >> Update & Security >> Windows Insider Program. (Note: You will need to have administrator rights on your PC for this option to show up).
3. Click to join the Windows Insider Program and follow the prompts to complete the setup.
4. Once it is set up, go to Settings >> Update & Security and click on "Check for updates" to finish the installation.

Now, once you are part of the program and have early access to apps and features, Microsoft hopes you will help by providing feedback to let them know what you think. Remember, the idea is not so much to give stuff out early, but to let people use them in real-world situations to help sharpen them for mass release.