Microsoft brings key Android gaming improvements to Windows 11

It was only natural, given how Android has always been a more open software environment, to see the platform be made available in methods and places that Google most likely wouldn't have approved of. Long before Chromebooks began to support running Android apps natively, Android unofficially made its way to laptops, desktops, and other sorts of computers. Android was initially designed to run on cell phones, but there were several options for using it on other platforms like Windows. Many of these methods involved mobile games because Android was originally created to operate on cellphones. Microsoft and Amazon's collaboration aims to make that a reality by allowing more Android apps to run on Windows 11. This most recent update nearly completes the circle by concentrating on the primary reason people want to use Android apps on Windows.

In recent years, mobile gaming has grown to be a very lucrative industry, and the main appeal has always been the opportunity to play anytime and anywhere. That isn't necessarily true because it might be inconvenient or less efficient to play a mobile game when you're already in front of a computer, for example. There may also be the situation where one does not own a smartphone capable of playing those games, but a gaming-worthy PC may be accessible nearby. Android emulators like BlueStacks have made emulation obsolete by turning that requirement into a business, but Windows 11 is working on making emulators obsolete.

Windows 10 brought with it a native subsystem for Android apps, similar to what Windows 10 did for Linux. Instead of partnering with Google, Microsoft joined forces with Amazon to utilize the Appstore platform as the basis for this functionality. Things have been going well thus far, and this most recent Insider update improves the experience even more considerably, especially for those interested in playing Android games on Windows.

For Insiders, the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) has been updated to version 2206.40000.15.0, which adds controller support in Android games. That covers everything from gamepads to joysticks linked to the conventional WASD keys and beyond. Games that require swipe gestures to aim or slide can now also be controlled using arrow keys on a keyboard, making it more convenient than ever before for Android gamers on Windows 11 . Assuming the game supports controllers rather than simply touch gestures.

The roll-out also includes a number of other enhancements, including improved networking and settings, as well as better visuals. Microsoft warns Insiders that certain VPN services may not function properly with WSA's Advanced Networking option, though. If that's the case for you, Microsoft suggests simply disabling the feature to reconnect Android applications to the internet.

It's great news for the Windows Subsystem for Android, but it's also significant in that it isn't yet available outside of the United States. Microsoft has announced that five more countries will be added to the list, although they won't happen until the end of this year. Another important note is that WSA utilizes Amazon's Appstore and services, which may cause some Android games and applications to not function properly because to Google Play Services being disabled.