How to Install Amazon Appstore on Windows 11 – A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft has finally delivered on its promise of bringing Android apps to Windows 11. Through the Windows Subsystem for Android, they have integrated the Amazon Appstore. Although this feature is currently in beta and only available to participants of the Windows Insider's Program, there is a workaround that allows you to install the Play Store as well. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to install the Amazon Appstore and Android apps on Windows 11 right now.

System Requirements for Windows Subsystem for Android

Before you proceed, make sure your computer meets the following hardware and software requirements:

  • Windows 11 build 22000.x or higher
  • 8GB RAM (16GB recommended for a smoother experience)
  • Intel Core i3 8th Gen, AMD Ryzen 3000, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8c processor or better
  • SSD drive (if you have both SSD and HDD, Windows must be installed on the SSD)
  • Microsoft Store app version 22110.1402.6.0 or higher
  • Registered for Windows Insider Beta channel
  • Virtualization feature enabled at both hardware and software levels

Verify System Requirements for Windows Subsystem for Android

To check if your computer meets the system requirements, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows+R to open the Run command and type winver, then hit Enter.
  2. Press Windows+I to open Settings, go to System > About, and check the Windows build version.
  3. Go to System > Storage, click on Advanced storage settings, then select Disks & volumes to determine if your storage disk is HDD or SSD.

If your computer meets all the requirements, proceed to the next step. If you are already part of the Windows Insider Program, skip to the next section.

How to Join Windows Insider Program

Joining the Windows Insider Program allows you to access unreleased features that Microsoft is testing in beta channels. Here's how you can join:

  1. Press Windows+I to open Settings, go to Windows Update > Windows Insider Program.
  2. Click on Get started to begin the signup process.
  3. In the pop-up, click on Link an account and confirm your Microsoft account.
  4. Select Beta Channel (Recommended) and follow the on-screen instructions.

Update Windows 11 and Microsoft Store

To ensure your Windows 11 is up to date and supports the Windows Subsystem for Android, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows+I to open Settings, go to Windows Update, and check for updates.
  2. If updates are available, click on Install Now. You may need to reboot your computer to finish installing the updates.
  3. Open Microsoft Store, click on the Library button, then click on Get updates to update everything.
  4. Click on the profile icon, select App settings, and check the Microsoft Store version number.

How to Enable Virtualization at Hardware and Software Level

Enabling virtualization at both the hardware and software levels is necessary for the Windows Subsystem for Android. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu and search for Turn Windows features on or off.
  2. Disable Hyper-V and enable Virtual Machine Platform.
  3. This is done to prevent any conflicts with other virtualization apps.

Install Amazon Appstore

Now, it's time to install the Amazon Appstore. Here's how:

  1. Open Microsoft Store and search for Amazon Appstore.
  2. Click on the Install button to begin the installation process.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions and reboot your computer when prompted.
  4. Launch the Amazon Appstore, sign in with your Amazon account, or create one if necessary.
  5. You can now search for and install Android apps from within the Amazon ecosystem.

Uninstall Appstore Apps on Windows 11

To uninstall Android apps installed from the Appstore, follow these steps:

  • Open the Start menu, search for the app, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
  • Alternatively, open the Control Panel, go to Add or remove programs, and uninstall the app from there.

Uninstall Windows Subsystem for Android on Windows 11

To uninstall the Windows Subsystem for Android, follow these steps:

  • Open the Control Panel or go to Settings > Apps > Apps features.
  • Search for the app and click on Uninstall.

Apps Supported by WSA on Windows 11

The Windows Subsystem for Android currently only supports apps from the Amazon Appstore. However, there is a community-driven list on GitHub that contains all the apps supported by WSA.

How to Update Apps for WSA

If you are an Android app developer, Microsoft has a detailed WSA document on their site that guides you through the steps of setting up the development environment and configuring your app to support WSA correctly. It also provides information on updating your app to support input devices like mouse and keyboard.

Bonus: How to Install Play Store

Although there is no official method yet, a workaround has been found to install the Google Play Store on Windows 11. You can follow a video guide posted on YouTube or use the open-sourced method available on GitHub. Additionally, there is an app called WSA Tools on the Microsoft Store that allows you to sideload Android apps on Windows 11.

Wrapping Up: Installing Android Apps on Windows 11

In conclusion, there are several ways to install Android apps on Windows 11. You can join the Insider Program and install the Amazon Appstore, wait for the official release, or use the unofficial hack to install the Google Play Store. Additionally, you can use WSA Tools to sideload apps until Microsoft releases the official working version for both the Amazon and Google app stores.