Windows 11 users, who since the launch of this version of the Microsoft operating system could download applications from the Amazon Appstore, will no longer be able to do so. March 5, 2024 is the date that marks the end of Android app support for Windows. This is news that has been received with surprise.
For now, for users who have installed Amazon Appstore or any other Android application before this date, there will be no immediate consequences. That is to say, They will continue to have access to all its functions, although not forever. We explain everything in the following paragraphs:
El official statement, which can be read on the Microsoft website, warns users that support for The Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) is coming to an end. The result of this is precisely that: the end of the Windows compatibility with Android apps starting March 5, 2025. That is, all of them have only one year of service left.
Microsoft makes its support team available to you in case of doubts or questions about this issue (support.microsoft.com). In any case, it seems that we are facing a firm decision from which there is no going back. But the fact that it was communicated without prior notice has left most of its users somewhat confused. The best word to define your state is this: surprise. And not exactly very pleasant.
Alternatives for users
Some type of Explanation that justifies a decision as drastic as this. Although there has been talk about the limited use that users have made of this functionality, or its limitations (few apps available), it is most likely that the reasons are other. Microsoft has probably decided to focus all its efforts on other projects, such as the development of Artificial Intelligence and its integration into the new generation of computers that will arrive, in all likelihood, this year.
In this way we say goodbye to an excellent initiative whose life, unfortunately, has been shorter than we all would have liked.
What can users who used to use Android apps on their Windows devices do now? Not only will it no longer be possible to install APKs through stores like Amazon, but neither will installing APK files be possible., just as it is done on Android. With this door already closed (or about to close), it will be necessary to look for alternatives.
The solution: return to Android emulators
Today, the only valid option is none other than to use it again. Android emulators. This will again be, as was the case before the launch of Windows 11, the only way to be able to enjoy Android applications within this operating system (and not only on a mobile phone or tablet, but also on the PC). An emulator works independently of the Microsoft subsystem, so there will be no problem in this regard.
An emulator allows us install Android apps on Windows 11, and play video games that have been developed for this operating system on any device. One of its advantages is that we will be able to use the keyboard and mouse to operate it. Very practical.
Here we review some of the best emulators that we can turn to. They are all going to be very useful to us. Deciding to use one or the other depends on the tastes and preferences of each user. This is our selection:
Android Studio
Especially suitable for developers. Android Studio It is available for both macOS and Windows. Through it it is possible to create incredible Android applications and preview the code entered. In addition, it has additional design tools and Studio Bot, a great program to help us generate and correct code. It also incorporates an AI-assisted smart code editor.
Download link: Android Studio
BlueStacks
Of the long list of emulators that we have at our disposal, surely the most popular and used option is BlueStacks. And in all fairness. Unlike Android Studio, it is an emulator specifically designed for gaming and includes an immense game library with more than two million titles. One of its strong points is that it works with Android 11 in order to offer lower RAM memory consumption.
Download link: BlueStacks
NoxPlayer
Also highly recommended for gamers, NoxPlayer It is presented to us as a great alternative with which we can once again enjoy Android applications, not just games. It stands out for offering very stable operation, even when running several games at the same time. It also allows you to record the screen and makes a very wide and varied catalog of games available to users.
Download link: NoxPlayer