With the introduction of Windows 11, the tech giant Microsoft has implemented a significant leap in ecosystem integrations. Apart from user interface improvements, visual changes, and some other performance optimizations, Win11 also makes it easier for users to access a wide range of applications. However, it seems that not everyone can use Android apps on their Win11 PCs. If you’re one of them, check out the easy ways to Install Android Apps on Windows 11.
At the time of its official launch, Microsoft announced that Windows 11 will support direct access to Android applications without any emulator which is a standout feature. This specific functionality connects between mobile and desktop devices to allow a seamless user experience and utilities. The integration of Android apps into Win11 brings the possibility of playing mobile games, using productivity apps, exploring new tools, etc.
What is Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA)?
Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) is a layer for Windows 11 that adds compatibility for running Android applications on their desktop/laptop. So, this subsystem creates a virtual environment for the Win11 operating system that allows Android apps to run and function properly just like an Android mobile.
WSA (Windows Subsystem for Android) natively works with the Windows Hypervisor Platform (Hyper-V) by integrating seamlessly to emulate an Android interface or environment. It helps the subsystem to run Android APIs so that the Android applications can perform better without any compatibility issues.
That means Windows 11 users will be able to install Android apps via the Amazon Appstore or sideload APK files on their PCs. Amazon Appstore does have a wide range of Android applications and games to be installed without any issues. Here we’ve shared with you the easy steps to install Android apps on Windows 11 natively.
Please Note: This specific method works fine on Windows 11 at the time of writing this article. But keep in mind that Amazon Appstore on Windows 11 will shut down on March 5, 2025. It’s quite unfortunate that Amazon has officially announced this decision. That means you’ll be able to use install Android apps until the deadline.
Supported Country or Region for Amazon Appstore on Windows
The Amazon Appstore for Windows is available only in select countries and regions. So, you should check out the list below before proceeding.
Note: If you don’t see your country or region in the supported list that means the Amazon Appstore on Windows app isn’t available for you.
Here’s the list of supported countries and regions as follows:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Canada
- Christmas Island
- Cocos (Keeling) Islands
- Cook Islands
- Belgium
- France
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Guernsey
- Heard and McDonald Islands
- Ireland
- Isle of Man
- Italy
- Japan
- Jersey
- Liechtenstein
- Luxembourg
- Monaco
- New Zealand
- Niue
- Norfolk Island
- San Marino
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Tokelau
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Vatican City
Enable Virtualization on Windows 11
You may need to enable virtualization on your Windows 11 computer by following the steps below if you haven’t already.
- Click on the Windows logo key to open Start.
- Search for Windows features in the search box.
- Click on Turn Windows features on or off from the result.
- Now, locate and tickmark the Virtual Machine Platform checkbox to enable it.
- Click on OK to save changes.
- Restart the system to apply changes.
- Now, you’re good to go with WSA.
Install Android Apps on Windows 11 (via Amazon Appstore)
To install Android apps on Win11, you’ll need to configure the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) on your PC. Ensure to install the Amazon Appstore app and enable virtualization, if prompted. In this guide, we’ve provided the step-by-step process to do so. Now, without further ado, let’s start.
Get the latest tips and guides delivered to your inbox
Or click on this link to subscribe to the email newsletter. We also hate spam! You can unsubscribe at any time. Check to follow.it Privacy and Our Privacy.
Install Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA)
- If you’re not sure if Windows Subsystem for Android has already been installed on your Windows 11 PC or not, then you can download it via the MS Store link.
- Click on the GET button to download it.
- Then click on the Install button.
- Choose Next > Click on Download.
- Wait for the app to get installed.
Install Amazon Appstore on Windows 11
Check out the steps below to easily install the Amazon Appstore on Win11.
- After installing the Windows Subsystem for Android app, follow the next steps.
- Now, open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
- Browse and search for Amazon Appstore.
- Click on it to open the page.
- Now, click on the GET button to install it.
- If a prompt appears on the screen, click on Set up.
- Hit Download > Click on Next.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed.
- Click on Restart.
- Once the system reboots, the Windows Subsystem for Android will open.
- Next, the installed Amazon Appstore application will launch automatically.
- Log into your Amazon account (you can also create a new one).
- Finally, you can start installing your favourite or useful Android apps on Windows 11.
However, the number of Android apps on the Amazon Appstore for Windows 11 is quite less than what it could be. Still, the list of available apps can be sufficient for most of the users.
The best part is that Windows 11 users can sideload APK files outside of the Amazon Appstore. Additionally, you can follow this guide to uninstall MS Store applications from Win11.
Well, there are plenty of sites available for APK files to download such as APKPure, APKMirror, etc. But these third-party services are unofficial and you’ll need to be careful with malware or corrupted files.
Install Android Apps on Windows 11 (via Sideloading APKs)
In case, you don’t want to install Android applications via Amazon Appstore, make sure to sideload an APK file of the Android application on your Win11 computer by following the steps below. You can also use this easy method if you’re unable to find any specific app. To do so:
- Open the Start menu on your Windows system.
- Open the Microsoft Store app on the PC.
- Search for the WSATools app on the MS Store. [you can also click on this direct store link]
- Click on the GET button.
- Wait for the app to get installed on the PC.
- Now, visit any third-party APK sites like APKMirror or APKPure.
- Then download the specific app APK file that you want.
- Next, launch the WSATools app.
- Click on Select an APK from the interface.
- Select the storage drive on your computer where you want to install the APK.
- Click on the Install button.
- Wait for a few minutes to install the APK file completely.
- Finally, you can launch the installed app directly or via the Start menu.
Bottom Line:
So, this is how you can easily Install Android Apps on Windows 11 with the help of Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) and Amazon Appstore. In addition, you’ll also be able to sideload the app APK file on your Win11 computer if you don’t find Amazon Appstore helpful enough.
For more news updates and guides, follow this blog. If you have any queries just mention them in the comment section below, till then stay tuned.
You can also follow us on Google News and Telegram Channel for real-time notifications whenever we publish any post.
Follow us on social media – Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for daily updates.
