Use remote desktop applications to command your Windows PC or Mac seamlessly using your Android phone or iPhone from any location.
Unlocking a multitude of capabilities, your phone can serve as a remote control for your computer. Whether you aim to reach your desktop while away from your desk or troubleshoot a relative’s laptop from a distance, remote desktop apps empower you to connect to your PC or Mac over the internet using your smartphone.
These apps replicate your computer screen on your Android phone or iPhone, eliminating the need for cables. Subsequently, you can navigate and control your Windows PC or Mac in the usual manner, either through your phone’s touchscreen and onscreen controls or by using external peripherals.
Chrome Remote Desktop
The simplest method to manage your PC or Mac using an Android phone or iPhone is through Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop tool. By connecting your computers through your Google account, this tool enables remote access with a simple click or tap on any other device.
As the majority of the app operates through a browser, configuring it is a breeze—install a small plugin and grant a few permissions. After connecting a computer to your Chrome Remote Desktop section in your Google profile, it seamlessly appears on your phone, allowing you to operate it effortlessly without dealing with access credentials or lengthy codes.
Initiate the process by visiting the Chrome Remote Desktop website on your computer and signing in with your Google account. Navigate to “Set up Remote Access,” click the circular blue arrow icon to download it, and then double-click the saved file to install Chrome Remote Desktop on your Mac or PC.
Go back to the website and choose the “Turn on” option this time. Follow the on-screen instructions to authorize Chrome Remote Desktop to project your computer’s screen on another device. You’ll also be prompted to create a PIN code for secure remote access to your computer.
Afterward, download the Chrome Remote Desktop app on your Android phone or iPhone and sign in with your Google credentials. Once your computer is powered on, it will automatically appear when you launch the mobile app for the first time. Simply tap on your workstation’s name, enter the previously set PIN, and within seconds, you should see its screen displayed on your phone.
You have two options for interacting with your computer. While using your finger is an option, it may not be ideal, especially considering that your computer is optimized for use with a keyboard and mouse. Fortunately, Chrome Remote Desktop provides virtual alternatives for these peripherals.
While accessing a workstation, touch the three-line button located at the bottom right corner to unveil the options for “Trackpad mode” and “Show keyboard.” Additionally, go to “Settings” and activate the “Resize desktop to fit” toggle to ensure that your computer’s content is automatically adjusted to fit your phone’s screen size.
Microsoft Remote Desktop
For an enhanced experience, particularly if you own a Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro PC, Microsoft’s Remote Desktop software is a preferable choice. In contrast to Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop, Microsoft’s solution delivers a smoother and sharper stream of your Windows PC to your Android phone or iPhone. The setup process is also straightforward, and you can get started within minutes as Microsoft Remote Desktop comes pre-installed on Windows PCs.
Go to Settings > System > Remote desktop and enable the “Remote Desktop” option. Confirm your selection in the subsequent pop-up. Take note of your PC’s name located in the “How to connect to this PC” section and have your smartphone ready.
Visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to download the Microsoft Remote Desktop app for free. On the app’s homepage, tap the plus button at the top right corner and select “Add PC” from the sub-menu. Input the PC Name you previously noted in the “PC Name” field. While it’s not mandatory to fill in other fields, you can include the account you use on your Windows PC in the “User Account” section. This step will save you from entering the username and password every time you want to access your workstation remotely. Complete the process by tapping the orange “Save” button.
On the app’s home page, select your PC’s name and grant access using the account associated with your Windows computer login. Microsoft Remote Desktop defaults to mouse mode, requiring you to drag the cursor with your finger for navigation. To switch to touch mode, tap the button to the left of the keyboard icon and choose the finger icon. If you need to adjust the screen resolution, return to the app’s home page and navigate to the three-dot button > Settings > Display.
