Microsoft will discontinue support for android applications on the Windows platform

The ability to install the Amazon Appstore on Windows is no longer available, though current users have a one-year grace period before it is discontinued.

Microsoft is discontinuing support for Android apps on Windows, specifically ending the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), which powers the Amazon Appstore and other Android applications on Windows 11. The decision, attributed to Microsoft's commitment to meeting evolving customer needs, marks a shift from the initial announcement in 2021 that Windows 11 would support Android apps. Users were able to install the Amazon Appstore, with some individual Android apps available in the Microsoft Store.

A Microsoft spokesperson clarified that the decision is part of their commitment to introducing new technical innovations and retiring products. Microsoft emphasizes its dedication to an open platform and ecosystem, pledging to continue providing the best experiences and apps to Windows. The termination of this feature may be attributed to Microsoft's focus on AI initiatives, potentially deeming previous efforts to enhance Windows as a touch-focused platform less valuable.

For users who installed the Amazon Appstore or other apps through WSA on Windows 11 before the specified date, they can continue using them until March 5, 2025. Amazon has confirmed that its Appstore and associated apps will no longer be discoverable in the Microsoft Store, and developers cannot submit new apps for the Amazon Appstore on Windows. However, existing apps can receive updates until the following year.

Looking ahead, Microsoft is rumored to launch new Surface devices on March 21, possibly introducing the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 as its first AI PCs.