Apple and Microsoft make some of the best hardware and software in the market, which may prompt you to buy products from both of them.
However, their respective products are not the most compatible; for example, iPhones and Windows PCs, making it a major pain point for users.
Nevertheless, bridging the gap between Apple and Microsoft devices is becoming increasingly easier, thanks to some of the essential software that we're about to discuss.
1. Intel Unison
For the longest time, being an iPhone and Windows PC user meant going through several laborious processes to sync your data and content between the two devices. While Android users could just grab a cable or use Bluetooth to sync their phones, iPhone users were left scratching their heads.
Intel Unison allows you to connect your devices seamlessly, making it an essential tool for iPhone users with Windows PCs. You can use Intel Unison to sync your iPhone to your Windows PC, transfer photos and videos, and receive and respond to some notifications from your PC. You can also respond to calls and messages using your PC.
The setup is simple; you only need to download the Intel Unison app on your iPhone and Windows PC and pair them using the text or QR code. Once paired, you can start syncing your content between the two devices.
2. Microsoft Phone Link
Phone Link is a tool designed to help you sync your smartphone with your Windows PC. Although originally available only for Android devices, the app now supports iPhones as well. And while it doesn't come close to the level of integration between a Mac and an iPhone, it still offers an impressive range of features, making it a vital software solution for iPhone and Windows PC users.
Phone Link works over a Bluetooth connection, and once connected, it allows you to transfer files between the two devices, take calls and send messages, and stay on top of your notifications right from your Windows PC. While they may seem similar, here are some differences between Intel Unison and Phone Link, which will help you know which is better for you.
Microsoft's Phone Link app comes pre-installed on Windows 11, but you can still download the desktop client from the Microsoft Store and the Link to Windows app for iOS on the App Store.
Download: Phone Link for Windows (Free)
Download: Link to Windows for iOS (Free)
3. Camo
As an iPhone user with a Windows PC, you may have felt left out when Apple introduced Continuity Camera to enable Mac users to use an iPhone as a webcam and enjoy a higher-quality video experience. This is particularly useful for remote workers who spend much time on video calls and want the best experience.
Luckily, you can re-create this feature using a third-party app called Camo. After downloading Camo on your iPhone and Windows PC, you can use a USB cable to sync them together or scan the QR code using the app to connect them wirelessly.
With Camo, you can use your iPhone as a webcam on your PC on any major video conferencing app, including Zoom, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, to name a few. You can also upgrade to Camo Pro for $39.99 per year to unlock more features.
Download: Camo for iOS | Windows (Free, premium version available)
4. iCloud
One of the benefits of owning multiple Apple devices or being part of the Apple ecosystem is that you can access all your saved files from any of these devices through your iCloud account.
However, you may not know that you can also use iCloud on a Windows PC to access all your photos, files, password, or contacts. This becomes more useful if you pay for extra iCloud storage, as it enables you to store your local files in the cloud.
To use Apple's cloud service on a PC, download the iCloud for Windows app and sign in to your account using your Apple ID. You can select the files you want to sync by checking the boxes next to them. And when you do, uou should be able to access all your saved iCloud files from here or store additional files in the cloud for easy access from any device.
Download: iCloud for Windows (Free).
5. iTunes
iTunes is another essential software solution for Apple users with Windows PCs, as it enables you to sync music, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and podcasts seamlessly between your iPhone and Windows PC. Basically, this app lets you manage your entire media collection from your Windows PC.
Also, if you're an Apple Music subscriber, you can sync your music library to listen to your favorite tunes when using your Windows PC. In addition, you can use iTunes to rent or buy movies and TV shows, discover podcasts, create custom ringtones, or back up your iPhone. All in all, it's a must-have app for iPhone users with a Windows PC.
Download: iTunes for Windows (Free).
6. Snapdrop
This is one of the easiest and fastest ways to transfer files from your iPhone to your Windows PC. The best part is that you do not need to download any app or sign in to any account to use it. Snapdrop is a free web-based file transfer service that works using a Wi-Fi connection.
To transfer files, visit the Snapdrop website on your iPhone and Windows PC. If you wish to transfer files from your PC, select the phone icon from your PC to access your computer's files. On the other hand, if you want to transfer files from your iPhone to your PC, select the computer icon on your iPhone's screen and choose the files you wish to transfer. Once selected, the file will be shared in a flash!
Your iPhone and Windows PC Can Work Together With the Right Tools
Using an iPhone with a Windows PC does not have to be a challenge. With the right tools, you can make the most of your iPhone and PC, whether for work or play.
These essential tools allow you to easily connect your iOS device and Windows computer to transfer files, sync content, and more! However, if you aren't satisfied, there are other simple ways to transfer photos from your iPhone to your PC.