Google promised long ago that we could run Android applications on our computers A few months later. Unfortunately, it seems the company is taking its time to enable this option, but thanks to the community, we now have the possibility of enjoying different apps for the mobile operating system on our computers, whether Windows, Mac and Linux.
Obviously, for Google to allow installing Android applications from the Chrome Web Store, it needs to first ensure some aspects such as the compatibility, the stability or a integrated experience, but luckily the developer community doesn't "have" those problems. Google confirmed the possibility to install some Android applications on Chrome OS just as if it were native, more specifically Evernote, Vine, Duolingo and Sight Words.
However, prior to this official method, the developer Vlad Filippov I had already managed to get virtually any app running on Chrome OS using the Android Runtime extension – with varying degrees of success. Well, this community contributor went one step further and managed to run Android apps in Chrome browser for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
What is ARChon and how does it work?
This requires the installation of a custom version of the Android Runtime extension called ARCHon. This is compatible with both Chrome for desktop and Chrome OS and allows the APK packaging using the tool chromeos-apk. As you might expect, just like the Chrome OS hack, this advancement requires manual effort, true technical acumen and be familiar with the Command line. Additionally, packaged APKs need to be installed manually (unpacked in Chrome-speak).
The trick relies on ARC, based on Native Client, which allows Chrome to run native code safely. Although ARC was born as a Chrome OS extension, its design makes it possible to run it on multiple platforms. ARChon takes advantage of that approach to Chrome on desktop can launch Android apps. However, there is no direct support for the Traditional APKs: first you have to convert them to Chrome extensions with chromeos-apk, which involves adjusting manifest.json, orientation y form factor (phone or tablet).
Quick Start Guide: Installing ARChon and Testing Your First App
– Download ARChon from its repository and choose the supported version with your system.
– Unzip the .zip and open it chrome: // extensions in a tab.
– Activate the developer mode and click on Load unzipped to add the ARChon folder.
– Check that it appears on the list without errors.
To test: install a test package (already converted app) as if it were another unzipped extension, ignore the warnings and click on Run. If it starts, you can now package your own apps. Keep in mind that not all applications will work perfectly; some require adjustments, and the absence of Google Play Services may prevent certain apps from starting.
Convert APKs to Chrome Extensions (chromeos-apk)
ARChon does not use conventional APKs, needs a format change. The community has documented a simple flow: download the APK (always respecting licenses), convert it with chromeos-apk and adjust manifest.json (for example, formFactor a phone o tablets y orientation a portrait/selfportrait o landscape). You can also find apps that have already been converted into communities like /r/chromeapks. Key tips: avoid setting options that break the layout in some apps and delete the “key” key from the manifest if inherited by mistake.
ARChon too replace the official extension provided by Google, so if you find it unstable, you will have to uninstall and reinstall it from the Web Store. Of course, it is a really important first step so that we can use our Android applications on our PC without any problem.
The page of GitHub project offers complete tutorial how to get the tool up and running and start enjoying it before Google officially allows us to do so.
Via omg chrome.
ARC Welder: The Simple Option Within Chrome
If you prefer something more direct, ARC Welder It works like a Chrome app to load an APK and run it in a window. Allows you to choose orientation (vertical/landscape) and format (phone/tablet) and, although it usually run one app at a time, is ideal for quick tests without touching the command line. It's fluid, but keep in mind that certain features (camera, sensors, or Google services) may be limited.
MyAndroid: Chrome emulator and desktop alternatives
Another way is a Android emulator within the browser, such as MyAndroid, which offers quick start, state conservation, advanced controls (mouse, keyboard, joystick) and Multiplatform supportIt even detects APK/APKX files when browsing and opens them in its file manager for execution. This is handy if you're looking for convenience and don't want to convert APKs.
If you prefer a full desktop, there are veteran and powerful options: Official Android emulator (Android Studio), focused on development; Genymotion, fast and with device profiles; BlueStacks, aimed at games and apps with high compatibility; AMI DuOS (Android virtualization with good performance); and other alternatives such as Andy Le Sauce, Youave, Jar of Beans or Visual Studio Emulator for Android. Each one stands out for its different capabilities (3D acceleration, IDE integration, mobile synchronization, low requirements, etc.), so it is advisable to choose according to performance, compatibility y usability.
How to upload new applications with a template and manifest
- Manually download the APK of the app and write down the package name (for example,
com.realvnc.viewer.android). - Make a copy of the directory
_templateand name it with the package identifier. - Inside the new directory, copy the APK en
vendor/chromium/crx. - Edit manifest.json to adjust formFactor (phone/tablets) and orientation (landscape/portrait/selfportrait). Remove the “key” parameter. Note: Some apps may crash with certain combinations.
- Upload the folder as unzipped extension in Chrome and run it.
With ARChon, ARC Welder and the emulation alternatives you have a complete range to choose from. bring your Android apps to your PCIf you're looking for control and experimentation, ARChon and chromeos-apk are ideal; if you prefer speed, ARC Welder or a Chrome emulator simplify the process; and if you need maximum compatibility Whether it's gaming or sensors, desktop solutions are still a winning bet.