3 Ways to Run Windows Apps on Android

Can you run Windows programs on Android?

“What is the way to run PC applications on Android? or Can I install and run Windows on Android device to use those apps?”

-Question from Reddit

Running Windows on an Android phone may sound complex, but for many users, it’s actually useful. People use it for remote work, gaming, or accessing Windows-only apps. Some tech enthusiasts have even managed to run Windows 10 on Samsung phones to enjoy a full desktop experience on a mobile device.

The good news is that running Windows on Android is not as hard as it seems if you choose the right method. This guide introduces three proven ways to do it: using a remote desktop tool, Wine, or the official Windows subsystem. Keep reading to find the method that works best for you.

How to run Windows apps on Android phone and tablet [3 ways]

This section outlines three ways to run Windows apps on an Android phone or tablet, each with its own benefits. However, if you want a solution that’s simple, reliable, and effective, AnyViewer is the recommended choice. Let’s get started.

Way 1. Remote into Windows PC and run apps on Android via AnyViewer

The most effective way to run Windows apps on Android is by remotely accessing a Windows PC from your Android. This approach allows you to use Windows applications on your phone or tablet just as if you were sitting in front of the computer. AnyViewer is a highly recommended free remote desktop solution that makes this process simple and efficient.

How to run Windows apps on Android with AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on your Windows computer.

Step 2. Go to Log in, and then click Sign up. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly.)

 Step 3. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to. 

Step 4. On your Android device, download AnyViewer from the app store > log in to the account you’ve signed up for above > find your target Windows PC from the My devices list > tap One-click control to quickly connect to the PC.

Step 5. Then you can fully control the remote PC from the Android device. You can now run any Windows apps on Android phone.

Tips: AnyViewer also supports iOS devices, you can access Windows computer from iPhone or iPad and run apps on your phone.

Way 2. Run Windows apps on Android via Wine directly

The second way to run Windows apps on Android is using Wine. Wine is is a compatibility layer capable of running Windows applications on several POSIX-compliant operating systems. Android is now supported by Wine, which was created to act as a bridge between Windows and Linux and enable Windows applications to run on Linux. That implies that running Windows apps on Android is now simple.

Step 1. Navigate to the Wine download page on your Android device. Download and install the latest version.

Step 2. After opening the downloaded APK, install the Wine app on your device.

Step 3. Launch the Wine app on your Android device. The first time you run it, it will take some time to extract its files and set up the Windows environment, but it will be much faster the second time.

Step 4. You will see a classic Windows desktop after installing Wine. Only two options are available: Start and Wine Command Prompt. Start by pressing the Start button.

Step 5. Click Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.

Step 6. Click the Install button in the new window.

Step 7. It will launch a file dialog. You can browse and choose the application (.exe) you want to install here.

Step 8. The program's installer will be visible. Install the application using the installer's on-screen instructions just like you would any other Windows program.

Way 3. Run Windows software on Android using a virtual machine

If you want to run Windows apps on Android without a PC or internet connection, a virtual machine is an option. However, it does have limits.

Limbo PC Emulator lets you run older versions of Windows directly on your Android phone. It uses QEMU to simulate a PC, allowing you to install systems like Windows XP or Windows 98. This method works offline and doesn’t need another computer.

If you’re fine with these limits, follow the steps below.

Step 1. Download the Limbo PC Emulator APK from a trusted website. It’s not on Google Play, so check the file before installing.

Step 2. Get a legal Windows ISO file, such as Windows XP or Windows 98.

Step 3. Open Limbo and tap Create to set up a new virtual machine.

Step 4. Set the virtual machine options:

• Architecture: x86
• RAM: 512 MB–1024 MB
• CPU: qemu32 or qemu64
• Load the Windows ISO in the CD-ROM section

Step 5. Tap Start to begin installing Windows. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish.

Once installed, you can run Windows on Android without a PC. Expect slow performance, but it’s a useful option for older apps or basic tasks.

Wrapping up

This post explains how to run Windows apps on Android using three proven methods. If you want to run Windows apps directly on your Android device, Wine is a possible option. If you want to do more on a Windows PC from your Android phone—not just run apps—AnyViewer is a better choice. It saves time and offers more flexibility. Let’s get started and run Windows on Android right away.

FAQs

Can you run Windows programs on Android?

Yes, with AnyViewer, you can remotely access Windows from Android and run any Windows programs.

How to run .exe file on Android?

Android cannot run .exe files natively because they are built for a different system architecture. However, you can run them via AnyViewer by connecting to your remote PC. Once the connection is established, you can open and interact with any .exe file on your computer directly from your Android phone or tablet.

Can I install Windows OS on an Android phone?

Generally, no. Installing Windows OS directly on a phone is extremely difficult due to hardware and driver limitations. A much more efficient and stable way to get the full Windows experience on your mobile device is to use AnyViewer. It streams your actual desktop to your phone, giving you complete control over the OS without the risk of bricking your device.

How to run Windows games on Android?

With AnyViewer, you can play PC games on your Android device. It supports high frame rates and low latency, and even provides a virtual mouse and customized keyboard specifically designed for gaming. This allows you to play AAA titles on your phone as long as your home PC can run them.

What apps let you play PC games on Android?

While there are several options, AnyViewer is highly recommended for its ease of use and stable connection. Other popular apps include:

• Steam Link: Specifically for games in your Steam library.
• Moonlight/Sunshine: An open-source option for high-performance streaming.
• Parsec: Focused on low-latency competitive gaming.