Skip to content

Instantly share code, notes, and snippets.

Show Gist options
  • Save HimDek/e09340eae2861e1ad8b7f6bdba5ee9ff to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
Save HimDek/e09340eae2861e1ad8b7f6bdba5ee9ff to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
This Guide will show you how to install and run apk files or Android apps in any Edition of Windows 11 using Windows Subsystem for Android. WSA or Windows Subsystem for Android is a Tool that allows Windows to run Android Apps directly without using any emulator.

Install Android apps or apk files in Windows using Windows Subsystem for Android

WSA or Windows Subsystem for Android is a Tool that allows Windows to run Android Apps directly without using any emulator. The problem is Windows Subsystem for Android is currently only available through preview via the Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program. But if you follow my guide, you don't have to be in Windows Insider Program to try it out. The only thing you need is Windows 11 installed and some patience.

Prerequisites:

  • Windows Subsystem for Android or WSA must be Installed.

Click here to view the guide that shows how to install Windows Subsystem for Android in any Edition of Windows 11 (including Windows 11 Home) non Inider or stable release.

How to Install Android Apps or apk files in Windows Subsystem for Android:

  • First install Windows Subsystem for Android. Click here to know how to do that.
  • Search and run Windows Subsystem for Android Setting from Windows start menu.
  • The window shown in the screenshot below will appear. There, click on the icon in the extreme left side of the Files box. This will start Windows Subsystem for Android and open the File Manager App in Android. This can take some time so be patient.
  • Keep File Manager running otherwise Windows Subsystem for Android will terminate itself.
  • Enable Optional Diagnostic Data and Developer mode in Windows Subsystem for Android Setting Window and click the Refresh button in the IP address Section.
  • Click here to download the latest version of adb and extract the downloaded zip file.
  • Inside the extracted folder, there should be a file named adb.exe along with a plenty of other files.
  • Put the apk files of the Android apps that you want to install in this folder, and rename them to names that are easier to remember.

    Note: You can download apk files of Android apps from websites like APKPure, APKMirror or F-Droid. These are trusted websites.

  • Copy the path of this folder from the pathbox in Windows File Explorer as shown in the screenshot below: 11
  • Search for Command Prompt in Windows Start Menu and Open it.
  • Type cd "" in the command prompt. Inside those "", paste the copied path by pressing Ctrl + V. The windows should look something like the below screenshot. Then press Enter. 12
  • Now, type adb connect 127.0.0.1:58526 in the Command Prompt Window. Press Enter and wait for the connection.
  • Once connected, type adb install "name.apk" in the Command Prompt. Replace name with the name of the apk file that you want to install and press Enter. After successful install, the installed App will appear in Windows Start Menu. Repeat this step for all the apk files that you want to install and they will appear in Windows Start Menu as well.

Thats it! Thanks for using this Guide. I hope it helped.

@finnjosten
Copy link

Does any one have info on how to install a .xapk file as they are a bundled versions of a .apk file but abd doesnt except them

@Niaz652
Copy link

Niaz652 commented Jun 15, 2025

With Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), you can now easily install Android apps or APK files directly on your Windows 11 PC. This opens up a world of possibilities, from running mobile apps on your desktop to accessing features that were once only available on your smartphone. If you're looking for an advanced photo editing tool, you can download the Photoroom Mod APK to unlock premium features like background removal and image enhancement directly on your PC. Simply visit https://photosroomai.com/ to get started with the latest Photoroom APK and enjoy editing your photos like a pro on your larger screen.

@usman48541
Copy link

usman48541 commented Jun 16, 2025

You can now run Android apps on Windows 11 using Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), and it’s a really handy feature. This way, you can enjoy playing 8 Ball Pool with all its enhanced features directly on your computer, without needing an emulator.
8 Ball Pool is a highly popular multiplayer game loved for its realistic physics and competitive gameplay. With WSA, you can experience smoother controls and a bigger display, taking your gaming experience to the next level. Follow the guide to install WSA and then download the 8 Ball Pool Mod APK to get started.

@usjam97
Copy link

usjam97 commented Jun 16, 2025

You can now use Android apps on Windows 11 with Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA). It's a super useful feature. By using this, you can now experience enhanced gameplay with Roblox Mod APK directly on your computer without the need for an emulator.

This setup provides smoother controls, a larger display, and overall improved performance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse and engaging Roblox community. Follow the guide to install WSA and then download the Roblox Mod APK unlimited Robux to unlock additional features and elevate your gaming experience.

@winkkapp
Copy link

winkkapp commented Jul 6, 2025

Thanks for sharing this detailed guide! Setting up Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) without being in the Insider Program is a game-changer for those wanting to test Android apps natively on Windows 11.

I’ve recently been experimenting with some advanced editing tools via APK installs, and WSA worked perfectly for it. For anyone looking to test creative or content tools—like Winkkapp—this method provides a smooth and emulator-free experience.

Sign up for free to join this conversation on GitHub. Already have an account? Sign in to comment