Windows 11 2022 update makes Android apps faster, with better touch controls and more
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Windows 11’s major feature update for 2022 has arrived, bringing with it a slew of improvements for running Android apps in the desktop OS and delivering the applications themselves on a much broader basis worldwide – including to Australia and the UK. .
As you may know, you can run Android apps – from the Amazon Appstore – on the Windows 11 desktop, and soon Appstore support will be expanded – and fast.
Microsoft notes that this will happen in the coming weeks, and while the Amazon Appstore currently only works in the US and Japan, the countries with access to Android apps (in preview) will grow to a whopping 31.
That includes Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK. Windows 11 users in all those regions will benefit from some 20,000 games and apps available in the Appstore.
Just as important – even more important for those who have already tested Android apps on Windows 11 – is the announcement that the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), which makes it easier to run Android software on the desktop, has been seriously improved.
Microsoft tells us that the new version of WSA arriving with the Windows 11 2022 update will bring two to three times faster performance in terms of graphics, and better input for touch controls, plus mouse and keyboard for that matter. Reinforced security and network improvements are also part of this new release of WSA.
Some goodies are also coming to the Microsoft Store. That includes a new ESPN app with live sports coverage that will be available later this month, and starting today for Windows 11 testers, Amazon Prime Video will be included alongside Disney Plus content.
Updates are also coming for the Microsoft Store in October, and that includes sprucing up in-store searches to include screenshot previews, adding a bit of visual flair. Microsoft also promises that when you get a new Windows 11 device, it will be very easy to restore all your chosen apps from the store.
Analysis: some big improvements – and help finding Android apps too
It’s great to hear that Android apps will benefit from better graphics performance, and not just a little – this sounds like a big step forward. Likewise, improvements across the board with controls will also be very welcome.
Keep in mind that these Amazon-provided Android apps can be accessed through the Microsoft Store, and another good thing to hear is that the software giant has made it easier to find them. Android software now appears in Microsoft Store search results, complete with inline ratings and reviews. Users can easily link to apps they like and want to share with their friends as well, improving the discoverability of these Android products on multiple levels.
With a leap forward in terms of 31 countries now having access to Amazon Appstore content, hopefully that’s a sign that it won’t be long before Android apps are no longer available and available to the general computer audience with Windows 11.
Not shy to shout about the increased popularity of the Microsoft Store, it’s also worth noting that the company has informed us that over 900 million unique users are using the store and that the number of new app and game submissions has increased by 122%. increased. by year.