How to Run Windows on an Android Phone or Tablet [3 Ways]

Running Windows on an Android phone might sound like a tech enthusiast's dream, but for many users, it's a practical need, whether for remote work, gaming, or accessing Windows-only software. On forums like Reddit, some users have even managed to boot Windows 10 on devices like the Samsung phones, all in pursuit of a full desktop experience from their pocket.

However, running a native Windows OS on Android isn't simple. Compatibility issues with ARM processors, limited hardware performance, and a lack of driver support make it nearly impossible for everyday users. The good news? There are practical alternatives. In this guide, we'll explore how to run Windows on an Android phone, and show you 3 tested ways: using a remote desktop tool, virtual machines, and the Windows official subsystem feature. Now, scroll down to start your work!

Part 1. Run Windows on Android via DeskIn (Fast & Easy)

While running Windows directly on Android has many technical barriers, the easiest and most reliable way to experience a full Windows environment on your Android phone is through remote desktop software. Instead of installing Windows natively, you can remotely access your Windows PC anytime, anywhere. This method is not only faster and safer but also preserves full Windows functionality.

DeskIn is a powerful and user-friendly remote control solution that supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms. It allows you to run Windows on Android by remotely connecting your smartphone or tablet to your PC. Whether you're looking to run Windows software on Android, play PC games, access work files, or assist someone with tech support, DeskIn makes it simple and seamless.

With DeskIn, you don't need to worry about USB setups, root permissions, or device compatibility issues. It supports high-speed file transfer, low-latency screen sharing, remote gaming, and even remote design tasks with drawing tablet compatibility. It's ideal for students, professionals, and gamers alike. Click here to download

👍 Key Features That Make DeskIn Perfect:

• Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS)

• Remote desktop control with high-quality image and low latency

• Fast file transfer between Android and PC (up to 12MB/s)

• 4K remote gaming support (up to 60FPS/144FPS with gamepad)

• Remote design support, including true-color display and drawing tablet compatibility

• No time limit, free plan available, and easy-to-use interface

• Privacy screen, black/white list management, and other security features

Now, follow these steps to set up DeskIn and remotely control your Windows PC from your Android phone.

Step 1. On your Windows PC, go to the DeskIn official website and download the latest version of the DeskIn client. Then, simply install it on your Android phone from the Google Play Store.

Step 2. Create a free DeskIn account and log in on both devices. You can use the same account on up to 3 devices with the free version.

Step 3. On your PC, find the Device ID and set a secure access password. Then, open the DeskIn app on your Android device, input your PC's Device ID and password, then start the remote session.

Step 4 (Optional). Customize settings like screen resolution, game keyboard layout, or drawing mode for smoother performance, especially when using Windows 10/11 apps on Android.

By using DeskIn, the best remote control app for Windows, you can experience advanced functions of running Windows apps on Android, and even use your phone as a second screen, all with top-tier performance and minimal setup! Click here to download

Part 2. Run Windows Software on Android via Virtual Machine

If you want to run Windows software on Android without relying on a PC or remote access, using a virtual machine is a possible solution, though with some trade-offs.

Limbo PC Emulator is a tool to simulate a full Windows environment directly on your Android phone, enabling limited use of Windows apps and older operating systems. It leverages QEMU to emulate x86 PC environments, making it possible to install and boot Windows XP, Windows 98, or even Windows 7 (in limited form) on your Android device. Unlike remote desktop tools, it does not require an active PC or network connection.

However, this convenience comes with performance constraints. Since it relies on software emulation rather than hardware virtualization, it's relatively slow and can only realistically handle older, lightweight Windows versions and basic apps. Tasks like word processing, file management, or running classic games may work, but don't expect smooth performance with modern software or multitasking.

If you are okay with these restrictions, just follow the steps below to emulate Windows on Android.

Step 1. Download the Limbo PC Emulator APK from a trusted source (it's not on the Google Play Store, so use caution and scan the file before installation).

Step 2. Obtain a Windows ISO image (such as Windows XP or Windows 98). Make sure to use a legally licensed copy.

Step 3. Launch Limbo on your Android phone and tap “Create” to make a new virtual machine profile.

Step 4. Configure the VM settings:

• Choose architecture: x86

• Allocate RAM (e.g., 512MB–1024MB, depending on your phone)

• Set CPU model (e.g., qemu32 or qemu64)

• Load your Windows ISO under the “CD-ROM” section

Step 5. Click “Start” to boot the virtual machine. The installation process will begin just like on a normal PC. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the Windows installation.

Once installed, you can run Windows on Android without a PC, though be prepared for slow load times and limited compatibility. Still, it's a unique way to explore retro computing or use niche apps that require older Windows environments.

Part 3. Enable Windows 11 Apps on Android via WSA

If you're already using a Windows 11 device and want to run Android and Windows apps seamlessly side-by-side, the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) offers a unique cross-platform experience. Though this approach works in the opposite direction, running Android apps on Windows, it effectively bridges the gap between platforms by integrating mobile functionality into the desktop environment.

WSA is officially supported on select Windows 11 systems, enabling you to install Android apps via the Amazon Appstore or sideload APKs. Interestingly, WSA can also redirect certain Android app intents, such as opening a browser or accessing media files, to corresponding Windows 11 apps, creating a smooth user experience.

While this setup doesn't allow you to natively run Windows 11 apps on Android, it serves as an alternative solution for users seeking to unify their workflow. The advantage is clear: seamless performance and deep integration into the Windows environment. However, its limitation is also apparent, so you'll need a Windows 11 PC, and it doesn't allow Android phones to run Windows apps directly.

To use WSA and unlock Android-Windows integration, follow these steps:

Step 1. Make sure your device is running Windows 11 (build 22000 or higher) and has Virtual Machine Platform enabled from the “Windows Features” settings.

Step 2. Open Microsoft Store and install the Amazon Appstore, which will automatically download and configure the "Windows Subsystem for Android".

Step 3. Once installed, launch the "Windows Subsystem for Android Settings" and adjust preferences like developer mode, graphics rendering, and file sharing.

Step 4. You can now search for Android apps via the Amazon Appstore or manually install APK files using ADB if developer mode is enabled.

Step 5. Use Android apps just like native Windows apps. WSA also supports file and URI redirection, so certain Android intents (e.g., opening an image) can automatically launch the matching Windows application instead.

Though it doesn't directly allow you to run Windows apps on an Android phone, WSA represents a modern integration layer—bringing Android app support into the Windows ecosystem and streamlining productivity for cross-device users.

Part 4. FAQs About How to Run Windows on Android Phones

Can you install Windows on your Android without a PC?

Technically, yes, but with limits. It's possible to install a version of Windows on an Android phone without a PC using virtual machine apps like Limbo PC Emulator. However, since most Android phones use ARM-based processors and have limited resources compared to a full-fledged computer, performance is often poor, and only older versions of Windows (like Windows XP or Windows 7 Lite) run smoothly.

If your goal is to run Windows apps efficiently on Android, using a remote desktop solution like DeskIn is a far more practical approach.

Is there a Windows on Android APK?

There's no official "Windows on Android APK" that installs the Windows OS like a standard Android app. However, there are APK-based solutions that emulate or virtualize Windows environments. For example, Wine for Android is an APK that lets you run certain Windows software on Android by translating Windows system calls.

You can also find APKs for tools like Limbo Emulator, which allows you to set up a virtual machine on your phone. That said, these apps don't install full Windows like on a PC; they simulate the environment with limited compatibility and performance. If you're looking for a more seamless experience, consider remote desktop solutions as the fastest and most stable route.

Final Words

Running Windows on an Android phone might sound like a dream for tech enthusiasts, remote workers, and mobile gamers alike, but thanks to solutions like DeskIn, virtual machines, and WSA, it's more accessible than ever. Whether you're aiming to run Windows software on Android, play PC games remotely, or explore Windows 11 apps within a hybrid environment, there's a method that fits your needs and device capabilities.

Click here to download