Windows 11 Insiders in the Dev Channel can now try out Android apps
Dev Channel Insiders can finally try out Android apps on Windows 11.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel can now test Android app support on Windows 11. Microsoft expanded its testing of Android apps to the Dev Channel earlier this week. Until November 4, 2021, only Insiders in the Beta Channel could try out Android apps on Windows 11. Microsoft added a brief update to itsblog poston the subject that specifies that Dev Channel Insiders can now try out Android apps.
Since Android app support on Windows 11 is in its early stages, it is limited. Only around 50 apps are available for testing, and those apps are downloadable through the Amazon Appstore.At least for now, the Amazon Appstore will be the primary way that Android apps are available on Windows 11. Microsoft explains that more apps will come out for testing over the coming months.
If you’re a more technical user, you cansideload Android apps on Windows 11. Some have even created tools foreasily installing APKs onto Windows 11. Sideloading apps allows you to install many more apps onto a PCs, though there are still limitations.
Android apps on Windows 11 don’t support Google Play services. As a result, some of the most well-known Android apps are unsupported on the OS. You can, however,run Google Play Store Android apps on Windows 11. This takes a bit more work but allows any Android app to run on your PC, including popular apps from Google and apps that rely on Google services.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
