11-02-2024 09:20
Hi, I have a simple Alcatel phone which does everything I need but rarely use it because I find the tiny touchscreen slow and error prone. I'm a confirmed computer user and except for the odd voice call when the other end will only use voice (BT and my GP surgery), I use a computer for everything else.
I drive a Vauxhall Astra with built-in voice connection software via Bluetooth, I set this up once and then when I get in the car with the phone in my bag, it auto-connects as soon as the ignition goes on. The car hardware is great, big touchscreen and decent speakers.
I also have a Windows 11 laptop with Bluetooth and decent speakers. So, is this a silly question? Is there software which would allow me to connect the phone and use it via the laptop like I can in the car?
I might actually make some calls if there is!
13-02-2024 08:18
13-02-2024 08:18
You install the App from the Play Store, and on Windows and follow the instructions..
All the instructions are here https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/sync-across-your-devices?r=1
13-02-2024 08:47
13-02-2024 08:47
Understood, that's what I did with my existing phone and didn't find out till I tried to activate the link that the 'device does not support the app'. Just had 10 mins chat with Google and they will not guarantee the app works with the Pixel range. So it looks like Samsung, who have it pre-installed.
Caveat emptor, as they say! Since the only reason I am changing the handset is to get computer connection, might as well be pre-informed. Thank you for all your help.
14-02-2024 21:20
14-02-2024 21:20
14-02-2024 21:44
14-02-2024 21:44
Bought it today! It really does have Link to Windows pre-installed, took a few tries to get it set up but worked in the end. Will do the car tomorrow, just been told about Android Auto which does more than the on-board Vauxhall software. A friend uses it with an older Galaxy that needs cable connection, I think this one might connect cable-free. Thank you for the recommendation.
15-02-2024 21:48
15-02-2024 21:48
17-02-2024 11:38
17-02-2024 11:38
The BBC has recently announced changes to the BBC iPlayer :-
BBC iPlayer to end programme downloads for PCs and Macs - BBC News
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-68283165
BBC iPlayer scraps offline viewing feature that MacBook and laptop owners will miss most | T3
BBC iPlayer ditches offline downloads on PCs and Macs, but there's a workaround | TechRadar
I believe that another workaround will be to download the IPlayer content to your 'phone and then to link your handset to your PC.