14 DAY TRIAL // One of the most exciting updates that Microsoft has released recently is support for Android apps on the Windows 10 desktop, all through the Your Phone app that comes pre-loaded with OS.
The Redmond-based software giant originally offered this feature exclusively for insiders, but now it’s available for production devices too.
The announcement was made on Twitter by Analy Otero Diaz, Principal Program Manager Lead at Microsoft working on cross device experiences, who confirmed that you no longer have to be an insider to try out Android apps on Windows 10.
“The newest #YourPhone feature: Apps, has started rolling out further. So some of you may see your Phone screen entry switch over to Apps (even if you're not a Windows Insider). Available on select Android devices,” she revealed earlier this week.
Not all apps supported
The Your Phone app, which allows users to pair Android devices with Windows 10, now supports running Android apps in their very own windows right on the desktop, all with a series of extra gimmicks, such as support for the Alt + Tab switcher. Furthermore, these Android apps can be pinned to the taskbar, essentially making them feel a little bit more native.
On the other hand, it’s important to know that these apps only work with certain devices, and of course, not all of them are supported. In other words, not all apps that you can find in the Google Play Store can be used on a Windows 10 device, as you could sometime end up with a black screen or the apps themselves just failing to load.
Needless to say, Microsoft is very committed to this feature and we should expect substantial improvements in terms of app support in the coming months. You can give it a try right now if you have a supported device and the Your Phone app is already up to date.