Ever opened your Start menu and seen images or files from your phone staring back at you? A little creepy? We get it. Windows 11’s Phone Link can sync your mobile content straight into your Start menu — sometimes without you realizing it.
Let’s fix that!
Below are 2 simple ways to turn off those recent mobile glimpses from popping up in the Start area. You don’t need to be a tech wizard. Just follow these easy steps and reclaim your Start menu.
1. Turn Off “Recent Mobile Content” in Settings
This is the easiest and fastest method. Windows gives you a switch to turn this off.
Here’s what to do:
- Right-click on an empty area of the Taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Scroll down and click on Start settings.
- In this menu, find an option called Show recently opened content from mobile devices.
- Flip the switch off.
And just like that, your mobile photos and files will stop showing up in your Start menu like uninvited guests.
Tip: This setting only affects what shows in your Start menu. You can still use Phone Link to view your stuff — it just won’t jump out at you unexpectedly.
2. Sign Out of Phone Link
Maybe you’re done with Phone Link for good. Or maybe you just want a digital break. Either way, signing out is another solution.
Here’s how:
- Open the Phone Link app on your PC.
- Click on the Settings gear icon in the upper-right corner.
- Select My Devices.
- Find your connected phone and click Remove.
- You may have to confirm by signing out of your Microsoft account in Phone Link as well.
This will cut the sync between your phone and Windows. No syncing = no mobile content surprises in Start.
Heads-up: If you change your mind, you can always reconnect your phone using the Phone Link app again. But at least now you’ll know what settings to check.
Why Hide Mobile Content in Start?
Good question! Here are a few reasons:
- Privacy: Maybe you don’t want your vacation selfies on display at work.
- Focus: Clean Start menus help you concentrate on tasks.
- Control: You like knowing what shows up where — and why.
Whatever your reason, Windows 11 gives you control. You just have to know where to look.
You’re Back in Control!
That’s it! You’ve now learned two powerful ways to take charge of your Start menu.
- Toggle off the “recent mobile content” setting.
- Or sign out of Phone Link completely.
Your Start menu will thank you — and maybe stop oversharing!
Keep exploring those settings. There’s a lot more hidden power in Windows 11 than you think. But for today, enjoy your clutter-free Start!