Windows 11: Android apps run under new operating system

With Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing a major innovation that will significantly expand the capabilities of PCs: for the first time, Android apps will be able to run on Windows without much effort.

Collaboration with Amazon

The new function will work due to a collaboration with Amazon. The Android apps can be obtained via Amazon’s App Store. Intel is also involved; the company ensures with its Bridge that ARM apps can be run on x86. The technical basis of the new function is the use of a virtual machine, which is supposed to be much more convenient than conventional virtual machines: Windows 11 uses a subsystem for Android that includes a Linux kernel alongside Android 11 and runs Android via Hyper-V. It is also stated that the handling is supposed to be similar to that of WSL in terms of comfort. Besides Amazon’s App Store, Adb access to the running Android system offers the possibility to install apps. Access to alternative app stores is also supposed to be possible this way.

So far only in the USA

It is currently only possible to use the new function in the US and with a US Amazon account. In addition, the current version of the beta channel of Microsoft’s Insider program is required. However, it is expected that the feature will be available in the regular operating system in this country in the near future. Then, it should primarily serve to make applications that are not yet available for Windows usable and thus significantly expand the possibilities that the operating system offers. This should not only be interesting for developers, but also for those who want to use various games on the PC that were previously only available for the smartphone.