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Change Windows Subsystem for Android Focus Behavior

Richard

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The article describes the process of modifying the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) focus behavior on Windows 11. WSA, which allows Android apps installation and usage on Windows 11, has two focus options: Cooperative and Independent. The instructions guide through changing focus behavior in WSA’s advanced settings after its installation. This impacts how Android and…

This article explains how to change the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) Windows focus behavior for apps in Windows 11.

Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) creates a virtual machine that provides the environment to install and run Android applications as natively installed on Windows.

You can install and play Android apps and games on your Windows machine using the virtualized environment through the Amazon Appstore.

The latest version of WSA allows users to change the focus behavior. As of this writing, there are two options one can choose from: Cooperative (default) and Independent.

  • Cooperative = Only one Windows app or Android app has a window focus. The last Android app used will lose focus when you switch to a Windows app.
  • Independent = Window focus is independently maintained by Windows 11 and the WSA Subsystem. This means an Android app and a Windows app can be in focus simultaneously.

Change focus behavior for Windows Subsystem for Android apps

As mentioned above, the latest version allows users to change the focus behavior for WSA so that only one Windows or Android app has a window focus.

Here’s how to change it.

First, you must install Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) on Windows 11. If you haven’t already done so, follow the post below to learn how to install it.

How to install Windows Subsystem for Android on Windows 11

Once installed, go to the Start menu, and search for Windows Subsystem for Android. Then, select and open Windows Subsystem for Android app under Best Match.

You can also click Start -> All apps and select to open the Windows Subsystem for Android app on the list.

When the app opens, go to its Advanced settings pane.

On the right, select the Window focus tile to expand it. Then choose one of the options below:

  • Cooperative (Default)
  • Independent

After making your selections, click the Turn off button for the “Turn off Windows Subsystem for Android” setting.

The next time WSA is started, the WSA window focus will be based on your selections above.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • The ability to change the focus behavior for Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) apps in Windows 11 provides users with enhanced flexibility in managing app windows.
  • With Cooperative (default) and Independent window focus options, users can tailor their experience based on their preferences and multitasking needs.
  • Following the outlined steps, users can seamlessly modify the Windows focus behavior for WSA apps, ensuring a personalized and efficient workflow.
Richard Avatar
Richard
Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He’s deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions. He enjoys watching football, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and spending time with his family when he’s not writing or managing Geek Rewind.

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