Android emulators Archives

AppWizard

October 13, 2025

I ditched Android emulators for this open-source app, and I can’t imagine ever going back

The integration of Android applications into desktop environments is increasingly popular due to their superior functionality compared to desktop versions. Applications like WhatsApp and Google Maps demonstrate enhanced usability on Android, with features such as flexible window resizing and better multitasking capabilities. Waydroid is an open-source project that allows Android apps to run on Linux systems without the performance issues associated with traditional emulators. It utilizes Linux namespaces and shares the host OS's kernel for near-native performance. Users can customize their experience by choosing builds with or without Google apps, and once installed, Android apps integrate into the PC's application menu. Waydroid offers smooth performance and the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously, although it has some limitations, such as restricted hardware access and notification issues. Despite these drawbacks, Waydroid presents a viable solution for users looking to combine Android and desktop computing.

BetaBeacon

July 24, 2025

My search for a great Android emulator for my new Mac took me down a rabbit hole

The fact described in the text is that Mumuplayer is the first Android emulator for Macs fully optimized for M1-based computers, offering customization options and a smooth experience for basic Android games, but with limitations for more demanding games and apps.

BetaBeacon

March 25, 2025

How to play Android games on your PC

Google Play Games for Windows allows users to play hundreds of Android games on a Windows PC running Windows 10 or later, as long as the computer has a solid state drive (SSD) as its boot drive and Virtualization support enabled in the BIOS settings. The app offers keyboard and mouse support for all games on the list.

BetaBeacon

March 22, 2025

This overkill Android Game Boy is better than my memories of the real thing

The AYANEO Pocket DMG is a luxury, Game Boy-styled handheld device that offers a classic vertical format for enjoying retro games.

BetaBeacon

March 21, 2025

Android games will soon be compatible by default for Google Play Games PC, unless devs opt out of it intentionally

Google announced a new strategy for Google Play Games PC platform at GDC 2025. The platform will now offer options for "PC Only" and "PC Limited Exclusivity" in addition to traditional "Android to PC" conversions. Developers can earn up to an additional 15% revenue for native PC games and will have easier access to the platform with the new default "opt-in" setting. Google Play Points will offer more booster periods and bonus rewards exclusive to the PC platform.

AppWizard

November 28, 2024

5 Best Android Emulators for Mac: Run Android Apps and Games Seamlessly

Android emulators for Mac allow users to experience the Android environment, bridging the gap for Mac users who face limitations with mobile gaming and Android-exclusive applications. The top Android emulators for Mac include: 1. BlueStacks: Widely used, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, free, features native gamepad support and impressive FPS capabilities. Currently available as BlueStacks 4, with BlueStacks 5 anticipated. 2. NoxPlayer: Lightweight design, operates on Android 9, supports Intel Macs only, free, features script recording and gamepad support, but does not support M1 or later chips. 3. Genymotion: Primarily for developers, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, offers cloud-based or desktop application options, free and paid versions, features ADB access and sensor simulation. 4. MuMuPlayer Pro: Supports M-series Macs only, paid with a 7-day trial, operates on Android 12, allows multiple instances for gameplay, but lacks extensive customization options. 5. Android Studio: Integrated development environment for Android app development, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, free, offers debugging tools and hardware/software simulation capabilities. Emulators serve various purposes, including gaming, app testing, and managing social media accounts.

BetaBeacon

October 26, 2024

The best Android emulators for PC and Mac of 2024

BlueStacks is known for being the lightest, fastest, and most comprehensive Android app player and emulator on the market.

AppWizard

October 1, 2024

How to run Android apps on Windows 11: Official and APK methods

Windows 11 users can no longer officially run Android apps as Microsoft discontinued the Windows Subsystem for Android in March 2024. The only official option for gaming is Google’s Play Games beta for PC, which requires enabling virtualization in the BIOS and downloading the Play Games Beta. Users must sign in with a Google account to access and install games from the Play Games beta storefront, but standard Android applications cannot be installed through this method. For regular Android apps, users need to use third-party emulators like BlueStacks or GameLoop, which allow sideloading of APK files and provide access to the Play Store.

BetaBeacon

September 17, 2024

The best Android emulators for playing your favorite classic games [Video]

Emulators are legal, but the distribution of copyrighted ROM files is illegal. Users are responsible for obtaining ROM files legally, such as by purchasing physical copies of games or through legal digital distribution platforms.

Winsage

July 26, 2024

Accessing your Android phone on Windows 11 is about to get a lot easier

Windows 11 Insiders now have easy access to their Android phones via File Explorer. To use this feature, Android phones must have at least Android 11, run the BETA version of the Link to Windows app, and be registered for the Windows Insider Program.