Microsoft Windows 11 to Support Remote PC Power Control via Phone

Microsoft is reportedly working on integrating remote power control capabilities into Windows 11, enabling users to manage their computers via their smartphones. The discovery stems from an analysis of the Link to Windows application's installation files, which revealed code for shutting down, restarting, or placing a PC into sleep mode remotely.

The feature, found within a component named RemoteControlManager, includes options for basic power control like restarting and shutting down. Significantly, it also appears to integrate with Windows Update, offering "Update and restart" and "Update and shut down" options. This suggests a more comprehensive remote management strategy.

To ensure data safety, the system will implement warning prompts before executing remote power commands, particularly if unsaved data is detected on the PC. Users will be prompted to confirm they have saved their work before a remote restart or shutdown.

This development follows Microsoft's addition of a remote PC locking feature to the Link to Windows app in late 2025. The new findings indicate a significant expansion of the app's remote management capabilities, allowing for more granular control over the connected PC.