The most exciting feature of Windows 11 – being able to run android apps natively on top of the Windows kernel – is finally rolling out to testers today. Although Microsoft hyped up the feature during Windows 11 announcement, it was missing on launch day. Now, the feature is available through the Microsoft Store, for users on the latest Windows Insider Build.

Similar to the Windows subsystem for Linux, the Android subsystem for Linux preview is now available on the Microsoft store. It’ll support most of the recent x86 processors from Intel, AMD as well as arm-based processors from Qualcomm.

However, there is a major caveat. As announced during the launch, the apps will be offered through the Amazon Web store. But users will need to have a US-based Amazon account to install any apps.

Additionally, only around 50 selected apps will be available currently, but more could be added going forward. Microsoft has also released documentation for developers outlining how to develop android apps specifically to be run on Windows 11. Therefore, plenty of Android apps should be available in the future.

The installation procedure is also streamlined, and unlike installing Linux GUI apps, it’s pretty straightforward. Microsoft store will list android apps, and if the user chooses to install them, the Amazon app store will be installed first, which then installs the chosen android app.

Instances of windows subsystem for android running on Windows 11 insider build. Credit: Microsoft

The apps will run side-by-side with native windows apps and based on priorities users can also toggle to have the Windows subsystem for Android running always in the background or as needed.

“You can see notifications from Android apps notifications in the Action Center or share your clipboard between a Windows app and an Android app,” the Windows 11 team wrote in a blog post.

Currently, there’s no option to sideload android apps, and Microsoft hasn’t indicated if it would be allowed. But the Windows community would be quick to come up with solutions.

Cover Image: Microsoft