Windows 11: Android apps will run on computers with AMD, ARM and Intel processors

While a Windows 11 build leaked before Microsoft's announcement, it did not contain one platform blending feature: Android app support. According to Microsoft, Windows 11 will be capable of running Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, itself downloadable through the Microsoft Store. Microsoft has not elaborated much about how this feature will work beyond. Still, Intel has explained that Windows 11 will emulate Android apps through its Intel Bridge Technology, a runtime post-compiler. Again, Intel is light on details for now.

However, Intel Bridge Technology will be available to more than just Intel processors. The Verge reports that Windows 11 can run Android apps when on ARM and AMD-based processors, too. Presumably, ARM SoCs like the Microsoft SQ1 and Microsoft SQ2 will run Android apps somewhat natively, or at least without needing to refer to Intel's Bridge Technology. Microsoft has not explained how Android apps will run on ARM-based Windows systems yet, though. 

Similarly, neither AMD nor Microsoft have commented on how Android apps will run on AMD processors. We do know that Android apps will support Windows features, such as taskbar pinning and Snap Assist, much like Samsung's app casting does now. Hopefully, Microsoft allows people to install APKs on Windows 11 too, for apps that Amazon does not carry on its app store.

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