How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (2023)

For the first time, you can install Android apps on Windows. Android apps, games, and notifications are natively supported on Windows 11. However, the official Amazon Appstore is only available to Windows Insiders.But thanks to a few package alterations on the original Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), you can easily operate Google Play services on Windows 11. Follow the instructions in this guide to install Google Play Store on your Windows 11 device.

Content

  • What Is Windows Subsystem for Android?
  • Install Google Play in Windows 11 Using MagiskOnWSA
  • Things to Do Before Installing Google Play Store Using MagiskOnWSA
  • Installing WSA and Google Play Using MagiskOnWSA
  • Final Check: Things to Do After Installing Google Play Store on Windows 11
  • Malware Alert for Powershell Windows Toolbox
  • Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Windows Subsystem for Android?

Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) is a Windows 11 component that runs Android apps on a Windows device in a Hyper-V virtual environment.

The program is designed as a virtualized Android operating system based on the Android Open-Source Project (AOSP). Once installed, Windows Subsystem for Android can be accessed from the “Apps & Features” section of Windows 11 and may be uninstalled from there.

How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (1)

Through the Microsoft Store, Windows Subsystem for Android integrates with Amazon Appstore, which is an official partner that brings the Android experience to Windows devices. Currently, both Windows Subsystem for Android and Amazon Appstore are only available to U.S.-based Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. To become an insider, follow the last section of this installation guide.

How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (2)

Microsoft is currently running the Windows Subsystem for Android Beta to improve the user experience of Android apps in Windows 11. While they do that, you can sidestep the whole insider procedure to run a full-fledged Google Play services experience on your Windows device.

How to Install Google Play in Windows 11

Currently you can use an open source application called MagiskOnWSA to install WSA and Google Play Store. That is, provided you meet the basic prerequisites of such an installation as we’ve covered below. The method won’t work on a Windows 10 PC. You should have migrated to Windows 11 to install Google Play on your device.

Install Google Play in Windows 11 Using MagiskOnWSA

In this method, we are using a root access tool like Magisk. A developer has modified the official Microsoft WSA package to offer an integrated installer that combines Magisk with open Google Apps, which are integrated into most Android devices. It is a safe download link through a GitHub repository and integrates well in the Windows 11 environment.

(Video) How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11

  1. Sign in to your online GitHub account and visit the repository link to install the custom WSA.
  2. Click “Fork” to save the repository to your GitHub profile.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (3)
  1. You should clearly see the “forked from” menu change in your GitHub repository. Click “Actions” to proceed.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (4)
  1. If your GitHub repository doesn’t support workflows, then you need to enable that option by clicking “I understand my workflows, go ahead and enable them.”
  1. To prepare the download files, click “Run workflow.”
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (6)
  1. You should now see a status message that reads: “Workflow run was successfully requested.” You have to choose your Android apps package, such as “pico,” the absolute minimum, or “full,” which contains stock AOSP apps.
  2. The workflow starts and displays an “in progress” status. Wait a few minutes for the process to complete.
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  1. Once the download files have been prepared, you should see a status that reads: “xx jobs complete.” Click “Show all jobs” to review the tasks.
  2. You should see the WSA software with Magisk and Android apps software. Click the suitable download link, depending on your computer version (ARM4 or x4).
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  1. The download initiates, and the repository zip file will be downloaded to your PC location.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (9)

Things to Do Before Installing Google Play Store Using MagiskOnWSA

1. Check system requirements

Ensure your device meets the following system prerequisites that are essential to install Google Play on Windows 11.

  • A minimum 8 GB of RAM
  • The system should already have migrated to Windows 11. If you’re still on Windows 10, use this guide to move to Windows 11.

2. Enable Developer Mode

  1. Go to Windows 11 Search box or Start menu search and find “Developer settings.”
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (10)
  1. Turn “Developer mode” on to be able to install apps from any source, including loose files.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (11)

3. Set Up a VM to Run Android Apps

Since WSA is a Hyper-V based environment, you need to configure the required virtualization settings on your Windows 11 device.

(Video) How To INSTALL Google Play Store on Windows 11 | FAST & EASY

  1. Type “Windows security” and go to “Device security” in the search box.
  2. Under “Core Isolation,” enable “Memory integrity” to configure the changes.
  3. Restart the device to apply the changes. You should see a status that reads: “Updates are underway. Please keep your computer on.”
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (12)
  1. After the device has restarted, go to the search menu and type “Turn Windows features on or off.”
  2. Enable the options for “Virtual machine platform” and “Windows Hypervisor platform.”
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (13)
  1. It will take a few minutes for the virtualization changes to be applied on your device.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (14)
  1. Your PC will restart to affect these requested changes.
  2. You will see an update status that reads: “Customizing features for you. You’re 100% there. Please keep your computer on.”
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (15)

4. Change Region Settings to US

Currently, WSA and its included Google Play settings are only supported for the United States. Even if you’re not living there, you should still go to “Region Settings” from the search menu and change the Country/Region to U.S. and the recommended language to U.S. English.

Installing WSA and Google Play Using MagiskOnWSA

To install Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) and the included Google Play on your Windows 11 device, follow the steps below.

  1. Copy the downloaded zip file of WSA and paste it to an accessible location on your PC, such as the desktop.
  2. Using 7-ZIP, WinRAR or other archival software, extract all the files to a folder at the same location.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (17)
  1. Navigate inside the unzipped folder and look for an “Install” file, which is a PowerShell script. It can be right-clicked and opened in PowerShell.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (18)
  1. The PowerShell window will open to execute the script. There may be a few permissions required. Enter “a” to confirm all operations.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (19)
  1. Wait just a few seconds for the deployment operation to complete successfully.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (20)
(Video) How to install google play in windows 11 The best and easiest way
  1. The Powershell script exits automatically, allowing you to easily search for Windows Subsystem for Android on your Windows 11 device. It’s been installed along with Google Play, which is an internal component of the package.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (21)

Final Check: Things to Do After Installing Google Play Store on Windows 11

After a successful installation, you need to take a few more steps to initialize WSA.

  1. Go to WSA Settings from a Start menu search and make sure “Developer mode” has been enabled.
  2. Configure the “Optional diagnostic data” for WSA. You may keep it either on or off.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (22)
  1. Wait a few seconds for the WSA apps to initialize. This operation will require at least 8 GB RAM to be successful.
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  1. Go back to the Search menu and open Google Play Store.
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  1. You will be asked to sign in to your Google Play Services account. Be sure to wait for the updates to finish.
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  1. Check whether Google Play Store has been installed properly on your device and whether the apps are downloading easily.
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Malware Alert for Powershell Windows Toolbox

We had previously covered a solution called “Powershell Windows Toolbox” which was available as an open-source GitHub code. It has now suddenly been taken offline due to malware concerns, which were nonexistent when we last published this article.

If you installed Play Store using Powershell Windows Toolbox, here’s how to easily resolve related malware issues if any:

  1. Using Microsoft Defender Offline Scan: Open Windows Security from the Search menu and navigate to “Virus and threat Protection -> Current threats -> Scan options.” Choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan which scans and repairs existing threats on your device, without booting to your operating system. Restart the device when done.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (27)
  1. Using System Restore: With System Restore, you can return your Windows system to the way it was before installing Google Play Store. Open System Restore from the Search menu and click the “System Restore” button on your PC. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the system to a previously stored Restore Point date. Use our System Restore guide if you need help completing the process.
How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (28)
(Video) How To Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 By Simple and Easy Way

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why will Google Play not let me sign in on a Windows 11 device?

Sometimes due to some unknown settings on your PC, the downloaded MagiskOnWSA file may not be compatible with your Google account on Play Store settings. If you’re facing Play Store sign-in problems after installation, perform the following remedial steps:

  1. Check whether your Wi-Fi or Internet connection is turned on and working properly.
  2. Download and install this software. There is an .exe file which needs to be extracted and installed.
  3. Go back to the Windows Subsystem for Android Settings and turn the “Developer Mode” on as usual.
  4. Open the ADB file in Windows Terminal. Run the command: .adb.exe connect 127.0.0.1:58526.
  5. Go back to the Play Store and click “Sign in” to log back in using your Google account.

2. How do I turn off Windows Subsystem for Android?

Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) can consume substantial CPU and other resources, especially if too many Android apps are open at the same time. To turn it off, go to WSA Settings from the search menu and turn WSA off. This means all apps will immediately close, and the WSA will restart the next time you open an installed app.

How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 - Make Tech Easier (29)

3. Are there any performance issues when you run Windows Subsystem for Android?

As the official Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) is still a work in progress, with Microsoft testing it on Windows Insiders, you can expect some performance delays, lags and visual problems.

Some of the performance issues include:

  • Letter and Pillar boxing: when the aspect ratio of an app window does not align well with your PC resolution, you may have problems such as the window being wider than its height or narrower than its length.
  • Mouse input problems: as the apps are designed for a mobile interface, some mouse inputs may not work, such as right-click, hover effects, drag and drop.

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FAQs

Is it safe to install playstore in Windows 11? ›

The new OS only natively supports Amazon's Appstore and not Google Play Store. And while sideloading Android apps is an option, anything that requires Google Play Services will not work. However, you can install Google Play Store on Windows 11 to overcome this limitation.

How do I run Play Store apps on Windows 11? ›

For Android apps on Windows 11, you need the Amazon Appstore and the Android Subsystem for Windows. You should already have the Android Subsystem for Windows installed with Windows 11 , but in case you don't, you can re-download it from the Microsoft Store.

How easy is it to install Android apps on Windows 11? ›

  1. Go to the Microsoft Store. Go to the Microsoft Store on your PC. ...
  2. Go to the Amazon Appstore. Type in Amazon Appstore into the search bar and click on the app when it shows up.
  3. Click on Install. ...
  4. Sign in. ...
  5. Follow the instructions. ...
  6. Sign in. ...
  7. Download the Android apps you want.
Oct 14, 2022

How to install Google Play in Windows 11 the best and easiest way? ›

  1. How to install Google Play Store on Windows 11.
  2. Uninstall Windows Subsystem for Android and enable Developer Mode. ...
  3. Getting and installing the modified Windows Subsystem for Android from GitHub. ...
  4. Using Google Play Store on Windows 11.
Sep 30, 2022

Can Windows 11 run Android apps? ›

Windows Subsystem for Android™️ enables your Windows 11 device to run Android applications that are available in the Amazon Appstore. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. If you're a developer interested in targeting Windows desktop devices and optimizing for the Windows operating system, this guide is for you.

How can I run Android apps on Windows 11 without Amazon? ›

To install Android apps outside the Amazon Appstore on Windows 11, use these steps: Open WSATools page (opens in new tab). Click the Get in Store app button.
...
  1. Select any folder to install the ADB tool.
  2. Click the Install ADB here button.
  3. Select the APK file.
  4. Click the Load APK button.
Oct 5, 2022

Can Windows 11 run Android games? ›

You can now play Android games on your Windows PC in the US, Canada, Mexico, and other regions. Google Play Games app is now available as an open beta for PCs. The app lets you play Android games on Windows 11 and 10.

How do you install any APK file in Windows 11? ›

Search to open Amazon Appstore in Microsoft Store, click "Install". Step 4. Click "Set up" and click "Download" > "Next" > "Restart". After this, you are now good to go and install Android APK applications on your Windows 11 computers.

Can I install APK files on Windows 11? ›

When one has an application in APK format but no Android device to install it on, one can use a third-party app. Windows 11, through the Windows Subsystem for Android, now allows you to open and install such files on your PC.

How do I install third-party apps on Windows 11? ›

You can only install apps from the Windows Store.
...
  1. Disable Windows S Mode. ...
  2. Check App Compatibility. ...
  3. Enable Third-Party App Installation From Settings. ...
  4. Free Up Storage Space. ...
  5. Run as Admin. ...
  6. Check 32-Bit or 64-Bit. ...
  7. Run App Compatibility Troubleshooter. ...
  8. Enable Developer Mode.
Aug 27, 2022

Is there a way to install Google Play apps on PC? ›

On your computer, go to play.google.com/googleplaygames. Click Download. To install the app, open the downloaded file, then follow the instructions on your PC. Installation can take a few minutes.

Is there a Google Home app for Windows 11? ›

Can you use the Google Home app on a PC? Available exclusively for iOS and Android devices, you won't find a dedicated desktop app for running your Google smart home on your Mac or PC.

Can I install Google Play Store on my computer? ›

There is no direct way you can download and install the Google Play Store on your laptop or PCs. However, you can access it via any web browser. Once you visit the Google Play Store on a browser you need to sign-in using your official Gmail ID with which you are logged in on your smartphone as well.

Is there a way to download apps without Google Play Store? ›

Grab the APKMirror Installer app and search for the apps you want to install
  1. Download and install the APKMirror Installer app from the Google Play Store. ...
  2. Visit the APKMirror website and search for an app you want to install on your Android device. ...
  3. Tap the Download icon on the right side of the app you want.
Dec 28, 2022

How can I use Google Play app without downloading? ›

Install it from the Instant Apps menu
  1. On your device, open the Settings app .
  2. Go to Google. Instant Apps.
  3. Tap the app you want to install.
  4. Tap Install.
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to install the app on your device.

How to run Android apps on your PC and laptop without BlueStacks? ›

Part 1: How to Play Android Games on PC without Bluestacks?
  1. Screen Mirroring Apps. (1) iMyFone MirrorTo. ...
  2. Google Chrome Extensions. (1) Android Online Emulator. ...
  3. Android SDK Emulator. As the name suggests, it is an android emulator designed for developers. ...
  4. Remix OS Player. ...
  5. MEmu Play. ...
  6. Nox Player.
Dec 6, 2022

How can I run Android apps on my PC without emulator? ›

Check out how to run Android apps on PC without any emulator:
  1. To begin, install and launch AirDroid Personal App on your Android device. ...
  2. After that, follow the on-screen instructions to allow AirDroid Personal to use your Android device.
  3. Now, download AirDroid Personal Client on your PC.

How can I use Google Play on PC without emulator? ›

If you want to play your favorite Android games or use other Android apps on your PC, you do not need to install an emulator. You can use MirrorTo screen-mirroring application, Android-x86 software, or chrome extension to use Android apps on PC without using an emulator.

How do I install Google on Windows 11? ›

Here are the steps to install Google Chrome on your Windows 11 computer.
  1. Go to google.com/chrome and click Download Chrome.
  2. On the popup, click Accept and Install.
  3. Your browser will now download the Google Chrome installer. ...
  4. After the download is complete, double-click the installer.
Jun 16, 2022

How to install APK on Windows 11 without Amazon Appstore? ›

You're not limited to the Amazon Appstore.
...
To install Android apps outside the Amazon Appstore on Windows 11, use these steps:
  1. Open Start.
  2. Search for Windows Subsystem for Android and click the top result to open the platform.
  3. Click on Developer.
  4. Turn on the Developer mode toggle switch.
Aug 26, 2022

Can Windows 11 run all apps? ›

If you're wondering about app compatibility on Windows 11, you shouldn't have to worry. All your Windows 10 apps should work just fine.

How to use Android in Windows 11? ›

How to install Android apps on Windows 11
  1. Step 1: Check if your PC can run Android apps. Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/ZDNET. ...
  2. Step 2: Install Amazon's Appstore. Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/ZDNET. ...
  3. Step 3: Install Android apps through the Amazon Appstore.
Aug 24, 2022

Can I install Android apps on Windows 11 with the release preview channel? ›

If you're a Windows Insider enrolled in the Release Preview channel and you're running Windows 11, you can now start testing Android apps on your PC.

Can Windows run Android apps? ›

With the Phone Link app, you can instantly access the Android apps installed on your mobile device right on your PC. Using a Wi-Fi connection, Apps allows you to browse, play, order, chat, and more — all while using your PC's larger screen and keyboard.

How do I allow non Microsoft apps on Windows 11? ›

To Change Your Computer's App Settings:
  1. On your computer, click the Start menu. Select Settings.
  2. Select Apps.
  3. Select Apps and Features.
  4. Under the first heading, "Choose where to get apps" or "Installing Apps", click the drop-down box.
  5. Select Anywhere or Allow apps from anywhere.

What is Windows 11 in S mode? ›

Windows 11 in S mode is designed for security and performance, exclusively running apps from the Microsoft Store. If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to switch out of S mode. Windows 11 in S mode is only available in the Windows 11 Home edition.

Why can't I download apps on my Windows 11 laptop? ›

Check App Installer Settings in Windows

To do this, head to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. At the top, you'll see a Choose where to get apps section. If the dropdown is set to The Microsoft Store only (recommended) then you won't be able to install apps from anywhere else.

Is Google Play Store safe in PC? ›

Although Google Play isn't 100 percent safe from malware, it's safer than downloading unofficial apps. Use a good Android antivirus app. Research the app before downloading it. Read the reviews; users often rate an infected app poorly and will usually warn others through the reviews.

Is it safe to download playstore in laptop? ›

Google Play Store is the safest and most secure way to download apps on your Android smartphone. Since mobile applications are based on the APK format, they cannot run in a Windows environment. This is the reason why Google Play Store is not available for your laptop or PC.

Should I trust Windows 11? ›

Windows 11 is worth the update for most people. It comes with a wide range of new features, performance improvements, and design changes. As the latest Windows OS, it usually gets more attention than Windows 10, too. There's not too much risk in upgrading to Windows 11, either.

What apps should I remove from Windows 11? ›

Preinstalled apps you can remove in Windows 11 Settings
  • 3D Viewer.
  • Feedback Hub.
  • Groove Music.
  • Microsoft News.
  • Microsoft Solitaire Collection.
  • Microsoft Teams.
  • Microsoft To-Do.
  • Mixed Reality Portal.
Sep 22, 2021

Can Google Play Store have viruses? ›

Several malicious apps on Google Play Store have been identified as containing viruses that can steal your data.

Which is the safest app store? ›

Google Play Store and the Apple App Store are the safest places to download apps, but that doesn't mean these platforms are free from all kinds of harmful applications as well. To stay safe from malicious apps you need to be extra careful and keep some things in mind.

Should I uninstall Google Play? ›

Disable the Play Store app

Important: You can't delete the Play Store app but you can disable it. We don't recommend that you disable the Play Store app because other apps might not work properly without it.

How do I install Google Play Store on my laptop or PC? ›

Begin installation

On your computer, go to play.google.com/googleplaygames. Click Download. To install the app, open the downloaded file, then follow the instructions on your PC.

What is the disadvantages of Windows 11? ›

With that said, below is our selection of the top complaints users have about Windows 11.
  • Windows 11's Hardware Requirements Are Too Stringent. ...
  • Changing Default Apps in Windows 11 Is Too Hard. ...
  • You Have to Sign in to a Microsoft Account to Use Windows 11. ...
  • Windows 11's Start Menu Is Less Usable Than Windows 10's.

Should I stay away from Windows 11? ›

But if you're still hesitant, there's really no reason why you should upgrade to Windows 11 right away. As long as you're on Windows 10, you'll have access to many of Windows 11's key features (like Auto HDR and virtual desktops) as well as critical updates and security patches through 2025.

How long will Windows 11 be free? ›

Here's the answer, per the FAQ: The free upgrade offer does not have a specific end date for eligible systems. However, Microsoft reserves the right to eventually end support for the free offer. This end date will be no sooner than October 5, 2022.

What bloatware to remove from Windows 11? ›

Windows 11 Bloatware List
  • Mail and Calendar.
  • Your Phone.
  • Xbox Console Companion.
  • Paint 3D.
  • Mixed Reality Portal.
  • Microsoft People.
  • Movies & TV.
  • Get Help.
Apr 4, 2022

Does Windows 11 get rid of everything? ›

Upgrading to Windows 11 doesn't delete any data as long as you click the "Keep personal files and apps" option.

Does Windows 11 uninstall everything? ›

The answer is No, but it is still recommended to backup your files just in case your files have been lost. If you passed the minimum requirements on your device to update your Windows 10 to Windows 11, you can proceed without any problem. If not, you can still stay on Windows 10 if you want.

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1. Install Google Play Store in Windows 11 (Easy method)
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2. How To Install Google Play Store On Windows 11 In 5 Simple Steps
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3. How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 (Complete Tutorial)
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4. Install Google Play On Windows 11 - Android Apps & Games Windows 11!
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5. Windows 11 WSA — Easiest Way to install Google Play Store
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