Windows 11 to Lose Support for Android Apps Including Amazon Appstore
Microsoft announces plan to discontinue Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) support
Amazon to stop new downloads of the Amazon Appstore from Microsoft Store
Windows 11 users are set to lose official support for Android apps, including access to the popular Amazon Appstore. Earlier this year, Microsoft introduced the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), which allowed users to install and run a wide range of Android apps on Windows 11 through a Microsoft-maintained virtual machine (VM).
However, Microsoft recently announced plans to discontinue maintaining the WSA within the year. This means that users will no longer be able to install or run Android apps on Windows 11 using this system. The discontinuation of WSA support also includes the removal of access to the Amazon Appstore.
While the official support for Android apps on Windows 11 is coming to an end, users with already installed Amazon Appstore or Android apps can continue using them until March 5, 2025. This provides some relief for existing users who rely on Android apps for various purposes.
Starting tomorrow, Amazon will prevent new downloads of the Amazon Appstore from the Microsoft Store. This means that users will no longer be able to access the Appstore and install new Android apps directly from the Microsoft Store.
Developers also need to take note of the changes. After March 5, 2024, they will not be able to submit new apps targeting Windows 11 to the Amazon Appstore. However, developers can continue to provide updates for their previously published apps in the Appstore, ensuring that users can still receive updates for their existing apps.
Despite the discontinuation of WSA support, there are alternative methods available for running Android apps on Windows 11. Platforms such as Waydroid and BlueStacks offer solutions for users who still want to access Android apps on their Windows devices.
It is important to note that Microsoft remains committed to integrating Android and Windows. The company recently launched a feature that allows users to use an Android device’s camera as a webcam on Windows 11. Additionally, Microsoft continues to maintain apps for integrating Android (and iOS) devices with Windows, ensuring seamless interaction between different operating systems.
While the loss of official support for Android apps on Windows 11 may be disappointing for some users, there are still options available to access these apps. Whether through alternative platforms or Microsoft’s own integration features, users can continue to enjoy the benefits of Android apps on their Windows devices.
Analyst comment
Negative news: Windows 11 is losing support for Android apps, including the Amazon Appstore. Microsoft is discontinuing the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) and Amazon will stop new downloads from the Microsoft Store. However, existing users can still use their installed apps until March 5, 2025. Developers also have limitations for submitting new apps to the Amazon Appstore after March 5, 2024. Despite this, alternative methods like Waydroid and BlueStacks exist for accessing Android apps on Windows 11. Overall, the market may see a decrease in user satisfaction with Windows 11’s app compatibility.
