Aurora Store as Play Store Alternative? Windows 11

With the advent of WSA (Windows Subsystem for Android) in latest Window versions is such a life saver for running Android apps in Windows without the use of 3rd party emulators.

The downside is WSA doesn't come with a Google Play Store app to download apps direct from Play Store which is limited from the default apps offered in Amazon app store.

A work around is using ADB tools to install an apk file to Windows but another problem arise is to where to download such files that's free from malwares. 😂

adb syntax:

adb connect 127.0.0.1:**** (copy IP according to your WSA)

you must allow adb from pop up window

adb devices
adb install <directory of apk>

APK Download Sites

Some would suggest downloading from APKMirror or APKPure but still do some diligence to scan with antivirus/malware programs.

Notable apk site alternative is F-Droid though limited apps can be found.

Modified WSA with Play Store

One solution I found to have Play Store in WSA is by using from a modified WSABuild from MustardChef (Read here).

Though, I encountered another issue where some apps not compatible with the default android version that comes with WSA when trying to install from Play Store as shown but manage to install via Aurora Store.

Before jumping to a modified WSA, try first from your default Windows Subsystem for Android and install first Aurora Store and download apps like you usually do in Play Store.

AURORA STORE

After searching for almost 7 months, I stumble on a forum comment to try the Aurora Store app, which upon checking almost like the regular Google Play Store.

Either install the F-droid apk then install Aurora Store or download from Aurora website and install apk via adb.

Aurora Store apk download

Search https://www.auroraoss.com
Click on Downloads button

Choose latest apk file according to date

WSA (Windows Subsystem for Android)

Open WSA and turn on Developer mode
Copy your IP

OPEN adb TERMINAL

Go to your adb folder
Open platform tools
Right click to open in terminal
Follow adb syntax above and replace with your IP
Click "allow" if pop up window asking for ADB to connect with WSA

LAUNCH Aurora Store

Click next

Installer Permission - Grant

Toggle Allow button

Search app to install

Click Install

Click Install to finish the setup

Congrats! Now open the app you installed if there are no issues.

EXTRA TIP

If you have a hard time using the adb tools to install Aurora apk, then you may download from Microsoft Store WSA Sideloader an apk installer which is easy to use, just browse the apk and click install.