Microsoft has recently announced that it will be discontinuing the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), dealing a blow to users who were enjoying Android apps on Windows 11. After just over two years since its launch, support for WSA will cease on March 5, 2025. This means that the Amazon Appstore on Windows and all associated applications and games will no longer be supported.
For customers who had already installed the Amazon Appstore before the announcement, they will still be able to use it until the end of support. However, Microsoft has made it clear that the Windows Subsystem for Android is no longer available for installation from the Microsoft Store.
This decision marks the end of one of the most anticipated features of Windows 11. Prior to its release, the prospect of Android app support generated significant excitement among users. However, the reliance on the Amazon Appstore, instead of Google apps, may have hindered its widespread adoption.
Despite consistent improvements to the Windows Subsystem for Android, such as enhanced compatibility with PC hardware and improved security, Microsoft’s choice to terminate support for the platform comes as a surprise. There has been a demand for running Android apps on Windows, making this discontinuation disappointing for many users.
Fortunately, there are alternative solutions available for running Android apps on Windows. One such option is BlueStacks, a popular Android emulator that supports Google apps. Users who still want to continue using Android apps on their Windows devices can consider using this emulator.
It’s important to note that the discontinuation of the Windows Subsystem for Android may disappoint Windows 10 users who upgraded to Windows 11 specifically for Android app support. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that this feature was initially only available in some regions during its pilot phase and was not accessible worldwide.
A message on Microsoft’s support page for the Windows Subsystem for Android reads:
Microsoft is ending support for the Windows Subsystem for Android™️ (WSA). As a result, the Amazon Appstore on Windows and all applications and games dependent on WSA will no longer be supported beginning March 5, 2025. Until then, technical support will remain available to customers.
