Laplink has unveiled version 5 of its Laplink Everywhere remote access tool, adding the ability to remotely search PCs, plus the ability to use a smartphone for remote access.

Available immediately, Laplink Everywhere 5 (LLE5) is a remote access tool similar to those offered by LogMeIn and Citrix Online's GoToMyPC, whereby users can remotely view and control any Windows PC with the host agent installed.

However, LLE5 adds the ability to search any remote computers and transfer files without having to dive into a full-screen remote control session.

"Only Laplink offers mobile access for searching a PC remotely - finding, viewing and even sending files. We think this sets Laplink Everywhere apart as the remote access solution of choice for mobile users," said Laplink chief executive Thomas Koll.

LLE5 also provides a separate client, Laplink Mobile, that provides one-click access to files and Outlook emails on the remote PC for users with Windows Mobile smartphones.

"Email on a smartphone is mainstream. Users want more. It's a natural next step to search an entire PC from the phone - to find old mail, filed mail, documents, spreadsheets, presentations, whatever - and open or email those files to someone else from a phone," said Koll.

Users can try out the full features of LLE5 free for 30 days, after which the software reverts to the Limited version that supports only remote search, email of results, and access to Internet Explorer favourites. The full features can be restored by purchasing LLE5 for $49.95 (£31) for a year's access.