Android now Runs on Windows PCs with BlueStacks

It had to happen sooner or later. We’ve seen just about every OS that’s out there running in virtual machines within other OSs: Windows on Macs using Parallels, various *nix flavors in a number of VM solutions, and even Hackintoshes running Mac OS on PC. So it was only a matter of time until someone found a way to run Android on Windows machines.

BlueStacks has developed a solution which will virtualize Android OS in an x86-based Windows PC environment, and apparently a number of PC manufacturers have taken an interest in this product.

Because It’s There

Apart from the obvious proof-of-concept, BlueStacks release seems to beg the question: “Why?” The Android OS was designed and optimized for running on touch screen mobile devices, not on stationary boxes. But on the other hand, and especially considering the simplicity and ease of customization of Android, why couldn’t it have its place in the PC World? If nothing else, many Android users may enjoy coming home to PC-space which includes some of the same apps they’ve been carrying around on their cell phones.

BlueStacks runs smoothly on a PC, as reported by Slashgear’s Ben Bajaran, who recently saw it demoed. It provide a seamless transition from Windows to Android environments, allowing true multi-tasking of apps in both OS’s. It also provides Android apps with access to Windows drivers, so, for example, you’ll be able to send documents from your Android programs directly to your Windows printers.

Android Market: No BlueStacks Allowed Here

One limitation will be lack of access to the Android Market, due to Google’s own restrictions. However, the BlueStacks folks are providing a very viable workaround by connection with the Amazon App Store.

The BlueStacks software is not yet available as a public download, but we’re told that there will be a release this year. We’ll be watching to see how this impacts Microsoft’s efforts to gain market share for its own Windows-flavored mobile offerings, as well as PC hardware manufacturers. Let us know your thoughts.

Source: Slashgear