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This Guide will show you how to install and run apk files or Android apps in any Edition of Windows 11 using Windows Subsystem for Android. WSA or Windows Subsystem for Android is a Tool that allows Windows to run Android Apps directly without using any emulator.

Install Android apps or apk files in Windows using Windows Subsystem for Android

WSA or Windows Subsystem for Android is a Tool that allows Windows to run Android Apps directly without using any emulator. The problem is Windows Subsystem for Android is currently only available through preview via the Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program. But if you follow my guide, you don't have to be in Windows Insider Program to try it out. The only thing you need is Windows 11 installed and some patience.

Prerequisites:

  • Windows Subsystem for Android or WSA must be Installed.

Click here to view the guide that shows how to install Windows Subsystem for Android in any Edition of Windows 11 (including Windows 11 Home) non Inider or stable release.

How to Install Android Apps or apk files in Windows Subsystem for Android:

  • First install Windows Subsystem for Android. Click here to know how to do that.
  • Search and run Windows Subsystem for Android Setting from Windows start menu.
  • The window shown in the screenshot below will appear. There, click on the icon in the extreme left side of the Files box. This will start Windows Subsystem for Android and open the File Manager App in Android. This can take some time so be patient.
  • Keep File Manager running otherwise Windows Subsystem for Android will terminate itself.
  • Enable Optional Diagnostic Data and Developer mode in Windows Subsystem for Android Setting Window and click the Refresh button in the IP address Section.
  • Click here to download the latest version of adb and extract the downloaded zip file.
  • Inside the extracted folder, there should be a file named adb.exe along with a plenty of other files.
  • Put the apk files of the Android apps that you want to install in this folder, and rename them to names that are easier to remember.

    Note: You can download apk files of Android apps from websites like APKPure, APKMirror or F-Droid. These are trusted websites.

  • Copy the path of this folder from the pathbox in Windows File Explorer as shown in the screenshot below: 11
  • Search for Command Prompt in Windows Start Menu and Open it.
  • Type cd "" in the command prompt. Inside those "", paste the copied path by pressing Ctrl + V. The windows should look something like the below screenshot. Then press Enter. 12
  • Now, type adb connect 127.0.0.1:58526 in the Command Prompt Window. Press Enter and wait for the connection.
  • Once connected, type adb install "name.apk" in the Command Prompt. Replace name with the name of the apk file that you want to install and press Enter. After successful install, the installed App will appear in Windows Start Menu. Repeat this step for all the apk files that you want to install and they will appear in Windows Start Menu as well.

Thats it! Thanks for using this Guide. I hope it helped.

@nahidn4p
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nahidn4p commented Sep 3, 2024

Great Guide. And U don't have to use ADB COMMANDLINE for apk installation. just download AoW Tools(Trial is free for unlimited) from store. Enable Developer mode in WSA. Then u can connect WSA to Aow tools. After that u can drop apk to install or double click apk in windows to direct install the apk. I know adb cmdline is more geeky but its handy to use a sideloader.

@muhsennysar
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Absolutely, using Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) to run Android apps directly on Windows 11 is a great feature. For those interested in photo editing, this is especially useful. For instance, if you want to use the Photoroom Photo Editor, you can install its Android APK on your Windows PC using WSA. This way, you can edit your photos with Photoroom's advanced tools directly on your computer, without needing an emulator.

Photoroom is a powerful app for removing backgrounds and enhancing images, making it a favorite for many users. With WSA, you can take full advantage of its features on a bigger screen. Follow the guide to install WSA and then download the Photoroom Premium unlock APK to get started. Happy editing!

@kananbrooks
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Great, could you also share insights on how we can integrate features similar to Insta Pro APK for enhanced user experience?
I'm exploring alternatives for Instagram modded apps.

@lolking2712
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Thanks!; it worked for me, I did have to combine a couple of guides though.

@luci07fder
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daemon not running; starting now at tcp:5037
daemon started successfully
cannot connect to 127.0.0.1:58526: No connection could be made because the target machine actively refused it. (10061)

"If this error is showing just open the magisk and it wil fix".

@Parker936
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Installing Android apps on Windows using Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) opens up new possibilities for user engagement. Fashion brands like Carlanisa can leverage this by enabling customers to interact with their apps on a larger screen, making it easier to browse collections of Baju Kurung and hijabs. With WSA, users get a seamless Android experience directly on their Windows device, enhancing accessibility and engagement for mobile-first platforms

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