5 apps turn Windows into the perfect companion for iPhone

Using an iPhone but working on a Windows PC, don’t miss these 5 apps for a seamless experience like the Apple ecosystem.

iPhone pairs best with Mac, because Apple designs the devices so they integrate seamlessly with each other. But if you still like to use your Windows computer for work, don’t worry – everything can still sync smoothly. With just the right apps, iPhone and PC can work together almost as seamlessly as iPhone and Mac.

These apps help sync photos, files, manage messages, calls, and even backup without having to constantly pick up your iPhone. You can reply to messages with the full keyboard, take calls through your computer headset, and transfer photos instantly, all directly from your desk.

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5. LocalSend – AirDrop style sharing to any device

Anyone who uses Mac and iPhone knows how convenient AirDrop is when transferring files back and forth. Although Windows doesn’t have that feature built-in, LocalSend is a near-perfect alternative. This app provides an AirDrop-style sharing experience between your iPhone, PC, and virtually any other device you own.

Using LocalSend is extremely simple: you install the app on both your iPhone and PC, select the file you want to send, then select a nearby device. Both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network, and that’s it. Because transfers happen entirely within the local network, your files never leave, which means faster speeds and better privacy.

LocalSend also scores points for being completely open source and cross-platform. You are not locked into any ecosystem. The app works seamlessly between iPhone and Windows, as well as with Android, macOS, or Linux.

Download: LocalSend for iOS | Windows (Free of charge)

4. Camo Studio – Turn your iPhone into a high-quality webcam for your PC

Most Windows laptops are not famous for their webcam quality. But if you only occasionally participate in video calls, there’s no need to buy a separate camera. Windows already allows using Android phones as webcams, but if you use an iPhone, Camo Studio will provide a similar experience.

This app allows you to connect your iPhone to your PC, either by cable or wirelessly. The free version limits resolution to 720p, but even at that level, the image is sharper and more vivid than most built-in webcams.

You can also upgrade to Camo Pro to record 1080p or 4K video, ideal for streamers, content creators, or anyone who wants to look their best during calls.

Download: Camo Studio for iOS | Windows (Free, there is a paid version)

3. Phone Link – Text, call and sync without a phone

If you’ve ever envied the seamlessness between iPhone and Mac, Microsoft’s Phone Link helps bridge that gap. It delivers somewhat of an Apple-style “seamless” experience right on your Windows computer.

With Phone Link, you can see notifications right from your computer screen, receive calls without touching your phone, and even view and reply to messages (including iMessages). The app’s biggest strength is its ability to handle seamless file transfers: if you need to transfer photos, screenshots or documents from your iPhone to your PC, you can do it completely wirelessly.

If you spend most of your day on a Windows PC but can’t live without your iPhone, Phone Link deserves a top spot on your list of must-have apps.

Download: Phone Link for iOS (Free of charge)

2. iCloud – Access all your Apple data with just one click

If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, chances are your photos, videos, files, and even passwords are safely saved on iCloud. The good news is that you don’t need to open your iPhone or browser every time you need to access it, just install iCloud on your PC.

Once set up, you can easily access iCloud Drive, photos, and other synced data right on your computer. Even better, your photos automatically sync with the Photos app on Windows, files appear neatly in File Explorer, and passwords, contacts, calendars, and bookmarks are all kept up to date across browsers like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.

Download: iCloud for Windows (Free)

1. Apple Devices – Manage, backup and restore iPhone easily

iCloud is great for syncing and backing up your iPhone, but if you want a more direct and proactive method, the Apple Devices app is perfect. This app allows you to back up your iPhone locally to your PC, install software updates, or restore your device if something goes wrong.

This is ideal for those who prefer to have a physical backup on their computer instead of relying entirely on the cloud. You can choose exactly what data to sync or back up photos, contacts, music or other data, instead of full sync like iCloud.

Download: Apple Devices for Windows (Free)

While Apple’s ecosystem still offers the smoothest experience when you’re “all Apple,” Windows users don’t need to miss out on that feeling of connection. These apps are just the beginning — there are plenty of other tools designed for specific needs, like note syncing, screen mirroring, and more.