One of Microsoft’s biggest disadvantage right now is the lack of apps. Their answer? Allow iOS and Android apps to run natively on Windows 10!
That means app developers don’t need to learn how to code for Windows anymore. It’s a win for users who badly want certain apps and developers who want more users to use their apps.
However, the ability to run Android and iOS apps will only be available for Windows Mobile. This is the version of Windows 10 for phones and tablets or any device with less than 8-inches of screen size.
iOS developers also have to edit a few codes on their apps in order for Windows 10 to properly support it. King’s Candy Crush Saga has been ported from its iOS version to Windows 10 using this method.
On the other hand, Android apks can be readily installed onto a Windows 10 device as long as it doesn’t need any API from Google. If it does, the Android developer must edit the app and use Microsoft’s counterpart API instead.
Aside from supporting iOS and Android apps, Windows 10 will also support classic desktop softwares such as Adobe Photoshop Elements. Users will be able to install these softwares from the Windows app store instead of downloading from Adobe’s website or by using an installation disk.
Lastly, web developers also receives some love from Microsoft. They can also submit their website to the Windows app store and be considered as an app. Of course, these won’t work as smoothly as native apps if the user’s internet connection is a bit slow.
Windows 7 and 8.1 users can upgrade for free to Windows 10 when it launches this summer in the US. That’s from June to August.
