Microsoft pulls the plug Android apps for Windows. The company has announced that it is ending support for the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), the component behind the Amazon Appstore (and other Android apps), in Windows 11. Microsoft told Engadget that this is in response to “evolving customer needs.”
Microsoft first said that Windows 11 will be able to run Android apps in 2021. When came next year, users could install the Amazon Appstore, and some custom Android apps were found in the Microsoft Store. The proliferation was perceived as a response to dual threats Android apps on Chromebooks and iOS apps on Apple Silicon Macs.
A Microsoft spokesperson explained to Engadget why it’s ending the feature now. “As part of our commitment to meet evolving customer needs, we periodically update our product offerings,” they said. “This involves the introduction of new technical innovations and the cancellation of products. Microsoft remains committed to an open platform and ecosystem, and we look forward to continuing to bring the best experiences and applications to Windows.”
with Microsoft A fiery full tilt to all things AI, can now see past attempts to make Windows a better touch-centric platform because it’s no longer worth the resources. As another possibility The Verge is speculatingPeople hunting for Android apps on Windows show exactly what they’ve been waiting for Google Play Store experience – not the Amazon variant that has a low overall selection.
Microsoft says customers who installed the Amazon Appstore (or other apps and games that use WSA) on their Windows 11 machines before Tuesday can use it until March 5, 2025. Meanwhile, Amazon clarified As of Wednesday, its Appstore and related apps will no longer be detected in the Microsoft Store. Additionally, developers can no longer submit new apps for the Amazon Appstore on Windows, but those with existing apps can continue to submit updates for them until this time next year.
As for what’s next for Microsoft, the company is rumored to launch new Surface devices on March 21. The Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 are likely expected with the company. marketing them as the first AI computers.
