Top 3 Key Points:
- Easier Screen Mirroring: Samsung’s One UI 6.1.1 update simplifies app screen mirroring on Windows computers.
- Improved Functionality: The update removes the need to repeatedly confirm permission for app streaming, a step back from One UI 6.0’s requirement.
- Enhanced Security: Microsoft shifted from the MediaProjection API to the Companion App Streaming API for better security.
Samsung Simplifies Screen Mirroring with One UI 6.1.1 Update
Samsung has always been at the forefront of integrating its smartphones with Windows PCs through the Windows Phone Link feature. This functionality allows users to easily manage their phone’s notifications, respond to messages, view photos, and stream apps directly on their computer screens. However, the One UI 6.0 update made this process more cumbersome, requiring users to repeatedly confirm screen mirroring for each app they wanted to stream. This inconvenience has now been addressed with the release of One UI 6.1.1.
What’s Changed in One UI 6.1.1?
The One UI 6.1.1 update, introduced alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, has simplified the screen mirroring process on Windows computers. Previously, with One UI 6.0, users had to tap the ‘Start Now’ button every time they wanted to stream an app, which quickly became frustrating. This was a change from earlier versions, where the confirmation was required only once per device reboot.
This additional step was initially introduced due to changes in Android’s security protocols. Specifically, Google closed a loophole related to the MediaProjection API, which had allowed apps like Windows Phone Link to request one-time permission for screen mirroring. Google’s change was aimed at enhancing security, but it also made the mirroring process less user-friendly.
New API for a Better Experience
Thankfully, this issue has been resolved with One UI 6.1.1. Microsoft has transitioned from using the MediaProjection API to the Companion App Streaming API, which is designed specifically for app streaming. This change eliminates the need for constant permission requests, making the experience much smoother.
It’s worth noting that ChromeOS also offers app streaming from Android devices without requiring constant permissions, using a combination of the Companion App Streaming APIs and the Cross-Device Services app.
What’s Next?
With the One UI 6.1.1 update, other Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets may soon benefit from this streamlined screen mirroring feature. However, for security reasons, users will still need to unlock their devices to initiate streaming on Windows 10 or Windows 11 computers.
This update marks a significant improvement in usability, making it easier and faster to mirror your phone’s screen on a Windows PC, while still maintaining the necessary security measures.
