Here’s how to install Android Apps on Windows 11.
Prerequisites for Installing Android Apps on Windows 11
The first thing you’ll need to run Android apps on Windows 11 is to be in the Windows Insider Program. You’ll need to be in the Beta Channel and have the latest version of Windows 11 and the Microsoft Store.
Check Windows Build Number
You’ll also need to be running build 22000.282 or above. If you’ve been getting new builds regularly, you should have it. To confirm your Windows build number, hit Windows key + R on your keyboard to check your version and build number. When the Run dialog opens, type in winver and hit Enter or click OK.
That brings up a window that displays your version and build number.
Enable Hardware Virtualization
Windows 11 runs Android apps in a virtual environment. Windows Subsystem for Android or WSA is a VM powered by Hyper-V to run the Android apps. So, another thing to do is ensure Hardware Virtualization is enabled. You might be familiar with it as it’s a prerequisite for enabling virtualization on Windows 11. To see if hardware virtualization is enabled or not, launch Task Manager. Open the Performance tab and look at the Virtualization entry in the lower-right corner.
If it isn’t enabled, you can turn it on in BIOS/UEFI settings. Entering the BIOS/UEFI varies between systems, so check the PC’s support documentation. Usually, you’ll hit F2, F12, or another function key while the PC boots. Look under System Configuration > Virtual Technology or something similar to enable Virtual Technology.
Update Microsoft Store
Now, to wrap things up, you’ll need to ensure you have the latest version of the Microsoft Store app. You can launch the Store from the Taskbar or Start menu.
When it opens, go to the Library section and click to update all apps. That will update all Microsoft apps with a pending update and the Microsoft Store itself.
The Microsoft Store app needs to be version 22110.1402.6.0 or higher. To check, click your profile icon on the upper-right side and then App settings.
Scroll down the page, and the version number is listed at the bottom under the About this app section.
Another thing worth noting is that you’ll see Microsoft Store Preview listed on the app’s top-left corner.
Install Android Apps on Windows 11
Now that you have everything set up, it’s time to start installing Android apps by doing the following:
Install Windows Subsystem for Android Manually
If the steps above don’t work, you can manually install the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA).
To install WSA on Windows 11, do the following:
A list of files will be generated, and you want to find the .msixbundle file — it should be the last on the list. If you need an easy way to see it, hit Ctrl + F and search the page for it. Click the link to download the file. It’s just over 2 gigabytes so allow time for it to download.
Once the file downloads, continue with the following steps:
Microsoft is working with other platforms, Linux as well. Take a look at installing Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 11. If you’re a new user, check out other Windows 11 optional features like enabling older .NET Frameworks to run retro games and apps. Comment Name * Email *
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