Microsoft pulls the plug on the Windows Subsystem for Android, signaling the end of Android integration on Windows 11. (AP)

Microsoft discontinues support for Android apps on Windows 11, preventing users from using mobile apps on their PCs.

Adriana MaraisMarch 6, 24 Android, Microsoft

Microsoft has made the unexpected decision to end support for running Android apps on Windows 11, bringing an end to an era for users who have become accustomed to the ease of accessing their preferred mobile applications on their PCs. The announcement has surprised many, as the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) was considered a major feature of Windows 11 when it was launched in 2021.

Microsoft is dropping support for Android apps

The disappearance of the Windows subsystem for Android was officially confirmed in a developer document published by Microsoft. According to the document, support for the Windows operating system Amazon Appstore and all applications and games dependent on WSA will end on March 5, 2025. Until then, technical support will remain available to users, providing a transition period for those affected by the issue. termination, reports Windows Central.

While users who currently have Android apps installed on their Windows 11 devices will still be able to use them after the exit date, the ability to install new Android apps from the Microsoft Store has been revoked. This means that users will no longer have access to the vast library of Android apps available from the Amazon App Store on Windows.

The reason behind it

The decision to end the Windows subsystem for Android is thought to be due to low usage numbers. Despite the initial excitement around the feature, the adoption of Android apps in Windows 11 has been overwhelming, and their usefulness has been limited, especially in the absence of Windows tablet hardware. As a result, Microsoft has decided to focus its resources on other areas considered more relevant to the Windows ecosystem.

Microsoft’s decision to end support for Android apps in Windows 11 marks the end of an experiment that failed to gain significant traction among users. While existing Android apps will continue to work for the time being, the future of Android integration in the Windows environment remains uncertain. Users are advised to look for alternative solutions to use their favorite mobile applications on their computers going forward.