Today, we are going to be talking about the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process. Below you’ll find information on what it is, how to check its legitimacy, and how to disable it if it’s consuming your system resources which could be used elsewhere.
What is PhoneExperienceHost.exe Process in Windows
The Windows operating system already has a lot of services and processes running in the background simply to boot it up, and we do not need unnecessary apps and bloatware piling onto it.That said, there are built-in applications in the Windows OS that are programmed to run automatically in the background so it doesn’t take time to load them when needed. One such application is “Phone Link,” formerly known as the “Your Phone” app.That is correct. Your Phone app has been renamed to Phone Link, and so has its corresponding process running in the background. The “YourPhone.exe” process has been renamed to “PhoneExperienceHost.exe” and is pretty much the same thing.The PhoneExperienceHost.exe is a process of the Phone Link app, used to connect your phone and operate it directly from your computer, rather than going back and forth between your devices.Whether or not you use the app, the process still may be running in the background as soon as you log in. This is because the Phone Link app is part of the startup apps that are programmed to run automatically. Due to this fact, some users have even reported seeing relative errors without even using the app:PhoneExperienceHost.exe system error messageIf you have found yourself in a similar situation or are seeing that the process is consuming system resources unnecessarily, here are a few ways to disable it.
Disable PhoneExperienceHost.exe from Running in the Background
One way to prevent the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process from running in the background is by disabling it, and not removing the app from your PC. This way, you will still be able to use it when required.Follow these steps to disable the process from running in the background:
In Windows 11:Navigate to the following:Settings app » Apps » Installed appsHere, search for “Phone Link” and then click on the ellipses in front of it. From there, click Advanced options.Open Phone Link advanced optionsClick on the drop-down menu under Background apps permissions and select Never.Set background permission to NeverIn Windows 10:Navigate to the following:Settings app » Privacy » Background apps Scroll down and look forthe Phone Link app. Toggle the slider in front of it into theOffposition to disallow the app from running in the background.Disable app from running in the background
You can now check that the application is closed; the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process would no longer be running in the background.
Disable Phone Link from Running Automatically
As we mentioned earlier, the Phone Link application is part of the Startup Apps you see in the Task Manager and the Settings app. It is programmed to launch automatically as soon as you log into your account.If you do not use the app that frequently, you can disable it from running automatically. Here is how:
From Settings app:Note: This method is valid for both Windows 11 and Windows 10.Navigate to the following:Settings app » Apps » StartupLook for the “Phone Link” app and toggle the slider in front of it into the Off position.Disable Phone Link from auto-startingFrom Task Manager:Open the Task Manager by pressing the CTRL + Shift + Esc shortcut keys.Switch to the Startup Apps tab, right-click Phone Link, and then click Disable from the context menu.Disable Phone Link from auto-starting
Note that both disabling the Phone Link app from running automatically and disabling the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process from running in the background do not mean that you will be unable to use the app when needed. The Phone Link application can still run manually.Note: This method is valid for both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Uninstall the Phone Link App from PC
If you do not use the Phone Link app and don’t plan on using it either, you can simply remove the entire app, prevent the PhoneExperieceHost.exe process from running in the background, and save space on your hard disk.That said, the application cannot be removed like other apps on the Windows computer. Microsoft has grayed out the option to do so.Cannot uninstall Phone Link from Settings appThat said, you can uninstall the Phone Link app using Windows PowerShell. Run the following cmdlet in an elevated PowerShell instance:This will remove the Phone Link app from your PC entirely.However, if you feel like reinstalling it in the future, you can install it from Microsoft Store.These are the 3 ways to prevent the PhoneExperienceHost.exe from running in the background and consuming system resources unnecessarily. However, if you find that ess is still running even though the app has been removed, it may be possible that the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process is malware and not a legitimate Windows process.
Is PhoneExperienceHost.exe a Virus?
As we have already covered; the PhoneExperienceHost.exe is a legitimate process associated with the Phone Link application. However, attackers often disguise malware as legitimate processes so they can hide in plain sight.If you find that the said process is behaving abnormally, like consuming more system resources than it should, or running even after disabling it, there are a few things you can check to verify if it’s a virus or not.
Check its Digital Signature
Digital signatures are electronically coded documents that prove the authenticity of something. It is part of the metadata accompanying an item, which can also be referred to as a certificate of authenticity.You can check the digital signature of the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process, and if it is signed by Microsoft, it is a legitimate process. If it is signed by someone else, or not signed at all, the process may likely be a trojan virus.Here is how to check its digital signature:If you find no digital signatures or a name of a signer other than Microsoft, then we recommend that you immediately stop the process and scan your computer for any viruses. Here is a list oftop antivirusesthat can get the job done.If it is “Microsoft Windows” as in the image below, then you have nothing to worry about. You can also clickDetailsfor more detailed information.Digital signatureTip:Usethis guideif you are planning on purchasing antivirus software.
Scan the File with Windows Security
Windows comes with its own antivirus software: Windows Security. You can scan the file running the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process to check if it’s a virus or not. Here is how:
Analyze the PhoneExperienceHost.exe File with VirusTotal
VirusTotalis a web-based antivirus engine that scans the provided files with over 25 different antivirus engines altogether. If Windows Security does not get the job done, you can also check the PhoneExperienceHost.exe process with VirusTotal. Here is how:The location of the .exe file will now open inFile Explorer.Note: Open this window open since we will be needing the directory path at a later step in the process.You will now be presented with a list of all the engines the file has been scanned with. Note that it is normal for one or two engines to give a false positive. Unless more antivirus engines detect a virus, you are good to go.All of these methods will inform you whether the PhoneExperienceHost process is legitimate or a virus, and then you can proceed accordingly.
Closing Words
Microsoft incorporates many software and applications into the Windows operating system. Some may consider it bloatware, while it may be useful for others. Even so, you have the power to control how the application and its respective processes behave when you sign into your account.The methods may be unconventional and not very straightforward, but they get the job done.Also see:
What Is YourPhone.exe Process In Windows 10, And How To Disable ItHow to Fix Modern Setup Host High Disk Usage in Windows 10How to Fix WMI Provider Host (WmiPrvSE.exe) High CPU Usage on Windows 10How To Fix Windows Modules Installer Worker (TiWorker.exe) High CPU UsageHow to Fix Nvidia Container High CPU Utilization
FAQs
How do I disable Microsoft phone experience? ›
Press Windows + I from the keyboard. Click on Privacy> Background Apps. Locate Myphone.exe and toggle the switch to disable the application in the background.
How do I turn off Task Manager Phone Link? ›- Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc).
- Click/tap on the Startup apps tab in the left pane of Task Manager. ( ...
- Select the Phone Link app.
- Click/tap on the available Enable or Disable button on the command bar for what you want.
Settings, Apps, click on Phone Link and click Uninstall. Another way is Control Panel, Under Programs click Uninstall a Program, then right click on the one you want to remove.
What is Microsoft phone link and do I need it? ›This link between your Android device and PC gives you instant access to everything you love. Read and reply to text messages with ease, view recent photos from your Android device, use your favorite mobile apps, make and receive calls, and manage your Android device's notifications right on your PC.
What happens when you disable device on Microsoft? ›After you disable a device, it can no longer be authenticated by your organization, and will be unable to access any of your organization's resources.
What does Microsoft Phone Link do? ›This link between your device and PC gives you instant access to everything you love. Read and reply to text messages with ease, view recent photos from your Android device, use your favorite mobile apps, make and receive calls, and manage your Android device's notifications right on your PC.
How do you stop apps from tracking you on your phone? ›- Go to Settings > Location and toggle off Use Location.
- If you leave the setting on, scroll down and change the settings for each app by tapping on them.
Phone link is a Windows companion app that connects Windows with an android mobile device. It can be disabled by navigating to the “Task manager”, locating the “Phone link” process, selecting it, and hitting the “End task” button.
What is the app called Phone Link? ›What can Phone Link do? Once connected, the app shows notifications and photos, allowing you to make and receive calls and text messages from your Android device. You can also wirelessly mirror your device to your PC on supported Samsung devices.
Is Phone Link safe? ›Phone Link is not end-to-end encrypted. Microsoft is generally a bit lackadaisical towards privacy, frankly. Skype is notoriously lacking in end-to-end encryption, for example, which has seen it fall out of favor for programs like WhatsApp and Telegram encrypted chats.
How do I unlink my phone from another phone? ›
While it's not the same thing, you can remove old phones from your devices list. Go into your Google Play account and click on settings. You will see a list of all the devices you've connected to your account. You can rename them or untick them from your list.
What does link to Windows do on Android phone? ›Link to Windows (also known as Microsoft Your Phone) allows you to see your notifications, send and receive text messages, make calls and view your recent photos right from your desktop.
How do I make sure my Phone Link app is running on my computer? ›On your PC: Check if the Phone Link app is set to run in the background. Select Start (or press the Windows logo key on your keyboard), then select Settings> Privacy > Background apps. In the list Choose which apps can run in the background, ensure that Phone Link is enabled.
Why link Android phone to Windows? ›Link to Windows takes everything that you can do on your smartphone and brings it to convenience and familiarity of your PC. Using the Your Phone app, you can send texts, see recent photos, triage notifications, and use any of your favourite mobile apps - all without ever having to take your phone out of your pocket.
Why would I want to link my phone and PC? ›By linking and syncing your Android with Windows 11, you can intercept phone calls, text messages, and more on your PC. Here's how.
What is your phone companion on my Android phone? ›Phone Companion is an app advertising and file transfer utility included with Windows 10 and available for Windows 10 Mobile. It provides a partial list of Microsoft apps that are available on Android, and Windows 10 Mobile.
What should I disable in Device Manager? ›Unnecessary hardware can be disabled in the Windows Device Manager. Review this list and disable any devices that you do not need, such as the Web camera, Bluetooth, DVD/CD-ROM drives, Ethernet or Wireless network adapters, and any other unneeded devices.
What devices are synced to my Google account? ›Go to your Google Account. On the left navigation panel, select Security . On the Your devices panel, select Manage all devices. You'll see devices where you're currently signed in to your Google Account or have been in the last few weeks.
What can someone do with access to your Microsoft account? ›If someone gets access to your Microsoft account, they may be able to use your email to reset the passwords for your other accounts, like banking and online shopping. You can change your password on the Security basics page at any time. Do make the new password significantly different from previous passwords.
What is the code to see if your phone is being tracked? ›Press *#*#4636#*#* or *#*#197328640#*#* to see if anyone is watching your movements. These are Utility Net Monitor Codes. Dialing these codes can tell you if you're being tracked or monitored through your mobile phone.
How do you know someone is tracking your phone? ›
- Unknown Apps. When using your phone, you should look out for applications that you don't remember installing. ...
- Excessive Background Data Usage. Try to frequently monitor the background data usage of your device. ...
- Browser History Mismatch. ...
- Battery Drain. ...
- Abnormal Reboot.
- Unfamiliar Applications. ...
- Your Device is 'Rooted' or 'Jailbroken' ...
- The Battery Is Draining Fast. ...
- Your Phone Is Getting Very Hot. ...
- Unusually High Data Usage. ...
- Strange Activity In Standby Mode. ...
- Issues With Shutting Down the Phone. ...
- Odd SMS Messages.
As a general rule, it's safe to remove any startup program. If a program starts automatically, it usually provides a service that works best if it's always running, such as an antivirus program. Or, the software may be necessary to access special hardware features, such as proprietary printer software.
How do I disable dialer exe? ›If it takes up too much CPU, it is recommended that you uninstall it, open the control panel, large icons, programs and features, find dialer.exe, right-click to uninstall, and see if you can uninstall it.
What happens if you end task Task Manager? ›A feature in the Microsoft Windows Task Manager under the Applications tab that allows the user to close any responding or not responding program. End task can be used when a program is not responding or has frozen and allows the user to quit a non-responding program without restarting Windows.
What is the difference between an app and a link? ›Access. Mobile websites are compatible across all devices and can be accessed by anyone through a web browser, while apps require downloading and special adaptations for each operating system -- such as Android and iOS. Apps are not immediately accessible like a website until they are installed.
How do you know if your phone has a virus from a link? ›- Your device feels physically hot. Your phone isn't built to support malware. ...
- Random messages are sent to your contacts. ...
- The device responds slowly. ...
- You find fraudulent charges on your accounts. ...
- The phone uses excess data.
Android App Links are HTTP URLs that bring users directly to specific content in your Android app. Android App Links can drive more traffic to your app, help you discover which app content is used most, and make it easier for users to find and share content in an installed app.
How do you check if my Iphone is linked to another device? ›From the Devices section of your Apple ID account page, you can find all of the devices that you're currently signed in to with your Apple ID, including Android devices, consoles, and smart TVs: Sign in to appleid.apple.com,* then select Devices.
What is nearby device scanning? ›Samsung's Android-based smartphones and tablets come with a feature called Nearby Device Scanning. This feature keeps scanning for compatible devices nearby, such as Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Buds, and Samsung SmartThings-enabled products.
What is private compute services app? ›
Private compute Services provides a privacy-preserving bridge between the Private Compute Core and the cloud, making it possible for Google to deliver updated AI models and other updates to sandboxed machine learning features over a secure path.
What is Meta Services app? ›Meta app basically tracks your activity and serves you the best content based on your interests. The main function of this app is to keep track of your activity. This feature automatically updates Facebook and Messenger without interfering with your experience.
What app controls your PC from your phone? ›Chrome Remote Desktop is available on the web on your computer. To use your mobile device for remote access, you need to download the Chrome Remote Desktop app. Tip: As an administrator, you can control if users can access other computers from Chrome with Chrome Remote Desktop.
How do you find out what app is running on my phone? ›...
From shortcuts
- Swipe up from the bottom, hold, then let go. If you're on Android Go with 3-button navigation, tap Recent apps .
- Swipe left or right to switch to the app you want to open.
- Tap the app that you want to open.
Some mobile carriers allow you to use your number with multiple devices. With these services, you can forward incoming calls automatically to all your devices, including your phone, smartwatch, or tablet. AT&T NumberSync lets you use a compatible device to answer your calls even if your phone is off or not with you.
Why is Phone Link running in the background? ›Your phone exe runs in the background as it manages the notifications from the mobile phones. The application has to run continuously to share the notifications on your laptop or desktop. If in case you disable the application from the background, then it might fix this error.
How do I unlink my Android phone from my computer? ›- Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Link to Windows > About Link to Windows. ...
- Click your Microsoft account.
- Scroll down to Link to Windows where you will see your previously used Microsoft account and email address.
- Click Remove account.
Straightaway, the answer is yes. Generally, there is no loss or danger in connecting your phone to your computer. Apart from that, there are many advantages. You can share web pages, receive Android apps notifications in Windows 10 Action Center, reply to SMS texts from Windows 10 PC, and many more.
Can I delete Microsoft YourPhone? ›The Your Phone app is deeply integrated into Windows to light up multiple cross-device experiences now and in the future. In order to build more of these experiences between phones, PCs, and other devices, the app can't be uninstalled.
How do I turn off phone experience host in Windows 11? ›- Do a right-click on the Windows Start button and select Windows PowerShell(Admin)
- Copy and paste the following command and hit enter Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.YourPhone -AllUsers | Remove-AppxPackage.
How do I turn off Microsoft voice narrator? ›
Press the Windows logo key + Ctrl + Enter together to start Narrator. Press these keys again to stop Narrator. On many keyboards, the Windows logo key is located on the bottom row of keys, to the left or right of the Alt key.
How do I unlink my Microsoft account from my Samsung phone? ›- Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Link to Windows > About Link to Windows. ...
- Click your Microsoft account.
- Scroll down to Link to Windows where you will see your previously used Microsoft account and email address.
- Click Remove account.
Unnecessary hardware can be disabled in the Windows Device Manager. Review this list and disable any devices that you do not need, such as the Web camera, Bluetooth, DVD/CD-ROM drives, Ethernet or Wireless network adapters, and any other unneeded devices.
What is Phonelink in Task Manager? ›Phone Link, previously Your Phone, is an app developed by Microsoft for Windows 10 for connecting Android to Windows 10 devices. It enables a Windows PC to access the 2000 most recent photos on a connected phone, send SMS messages, and make phone calls.
What does Microsoft phone app do? ›This link between your device and PC gives you instant access to everything you love. Read and reply to text messages with ease, view recent photos from your Android device, use your favorite mobile apps, make and receive calls, and manage your Android device's notifications right on your PC.
How do I stop Windows 11 from spying on me? ›- Open the Start menu and launch the Settings app.
- From the side pane, select Privacy & security, and then under Windows permissions, select the General tab.
- Turn off all of the general preferences by using the toggle option.
Disable RDP in Windows 10
Click the Windows Start button and type "Allow Remote Access to your computer". This will quickly search for the remote settings dialog box of the System Properties. Make sure "Allow Remote Assistance connections to this computer" is unchecked.
Narrator is an accessibility feature in Windows 10 that reads your computer screen aloud. You can turn Narrator on or off by opening the Settings app and going to the Ease of Access section. You can also turn Narrator on or off quickly using the Win+CTRL+Enter keyboard shortcut.
What is the app that reads text on screen? ›Text to speech from Speechify lets you listen to docs, articles, PDFs, email, and various other formats — anything you read. With 20M+ users, it is the top rated TTS app in the AppStore. Our users have listened to over 250 billion words with Speechify.
Why do I need to link my Samsung account to my Microsoft account? ›Connecting accounts means you also allow Microsoft to provide the following data to be accessed, stored, and used by Samsung in accordance with the Samsung Privacy Policy: Profile data — includes your Microsoft account unique identifier, which is used to help verify your identity.
Is Samsung link sharing safe? ›
FAQs. Is Samsung link sharing safe? The Samsung link sharing is safe to use but you must explore a lot to implement the safety features in the transfer process. Before sharing files, learn to remove the location metadata and there are options to establish full control of the sent content.