Microsoft announces that the next Windows 11 update will officially introduce Android apps to the Microsoft Store. Other novelties are on the program.
In a blog post returning to the impact of Windows in society (where we learn in particular that applications like Slack, Teams and Zoom are used six times more since the start of the pandemic), Microsoft reveals first details on the first major update of Windows 11, which will be available in February. Its main novelty is the official introduction of Android applications in the Windows ecosystem.
Android, but only from the Amazon Appstore
Starting next month, all Windows 11 users will have access to an “Android” pane in the Microsoft Store. This novelty, perhaps one of the most important of Microsoft’s new operating system, will allow PC users to install applications normally intended for smartphones and tablets. There are however two important limits, Microsoft will only offer applications from the Amazon Appstore (the two companies have joined forces) and, for the moment, speaks of a “Public Preview”. It is therefore possible that bugs are present at launch.
Among the applications present on the Amazon Appstore, let us mention in particular kindle, Facebook, instagram, Disney+, Plex Where TiK Tok. A few games are also present but the list is limited compared to the Google Play Store. Moreover, no Google application is offered on the Amazon store.
For the most impatient, several hacks allow you to install Android applications on Windows 11 now. Utilities even allow you to run the Google Play Store to take advantage of its incredible catalog.
Some aesthetic improvements
Other changes Microsoft is pushing include new features for the Windows 11 taskbar. Secondary monitor users should be able to see the time on all their screens, which was strangely impossible with early versions. of the OS. A button to quickly mute the sound is also in the program, like a widget for the weather. Finally, the apps Notepad and Windows Media Player will be entitled to new interfaces, including a dark mode.
Microsoft has not yet given an official date for the deployment of this update.