Microsoft has updated the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA). This update adds support for sharing files between Windows and WSA. Users can permit WSA to access Windows folders like Documents and Pictures. This allows users to seamlessly upload photos to social media apps or edit videos in creative apps.
To get the update, Windows Insiders can click “System” and “Experimental feature settings.” They can turn on the “Share User Folder” toggle switch. When an Android app runs on WSA, it can read Windows 11 files using folder sharing. Android apps will need permission to access shared files. Users can revoke access per app. This update includes the Android 13 security update and camera hardware compatibility improvements.
This feature is enabled by default but can be turned off in settings. Users can drag and drop files from File Explorer into Android apps or paste copied files to the Windows Clipboard. The app will ask for permission to access shared files.
File Sharing on the Windows Subsystem for Android, Available to Preview Members by Default
This feature is available for Android apps that support it and can only access files with permission. After setting up a shared directory, it has a security advantage over giving WSA unrestricted access to the Windows Root Level directory. Android apps must show a system dialogue prompt before accessing your files. Anything outside of the specified folder is inaccessible.
This update is part of the Windows Subsystem for Android 4.0 Update, including graphics fixes and settings updates. These updates give users more flexibility and control over accessing their files. However, it is imperative to note that some restrictions protect users’ privacy.
The WSA will see your Windows files as an SD card. An initial slowdown may occur when you enable the feature, as the WSA will have to index. Only files the subsystem saves to “/sdcard/Windows” are available to Windows.
What’s New with the Windows Subsystem for Android June 2023 Update?
This update is available for Windows Insiders to test. Microsoft scans all Android apps during installation with Microsoft Defender or other antivirus software to prevent malicious apps from being loaded.
Setting up a shared directory like this has many security advantages over giving WSA unrestricted access to the Windows root-level directory and Windows system files. Potentially malicious files on USB drives, executable files, and hidden files in the shared directory are not accessible.
- Settings Update: Updated settings for managing app permissions make it easier to find and change app settings for managing app permissions.
- Drag and Drop Support: Easy to move files around and collaborate on projects. Only files stored in “C:Usersxxx” can be accessed with program files, and folders created on internal and external drives are exempt from file sharing. Your files are shared within the subsystem as “/sdcard/Windows.”
- Camera Improvements: Better image quality and support for more camera features. Increased the image quality of photos and videos taken with the camera and added zoom and flash support for more camera features.
- File sharing is a long-requested feature that will make using Android apps on Windows easier.
Note: .exe folders are blocked from file sharing and will likely become available for all Windows 11 users in the coming weeks.
Some are not available on WSA. This includes Windows system files, potentially malicious files on USB drives, executable files on external drives, folders from other users, executable files, and hidden files in the shared directory. Users can seamlessly transfer content between their Android device and PC using the Microsoft Phone Link for Windows app. Also, OneDrive files must be downloaded before sharing. This update is rolling out gradually to all insider channels via the Microsoft Store.
How to Enable File Sharing on WSA for Windows 11
Once you enable the feature, you can access your profile folders from the Android app, including documents, downloads, pictures, music, and videos.
- Open Windows 11 and search for the Windows Subsystem for Android.
- Click on the top result to open the app, then click System.
- From there, click on Experimental Feature Settings and enable the “Share user folders” toggle switch.
- Click on the “Turn off Windows Subsystem for Android” button to disable the “Turn off Windows Subsystem for Android” settings.
- Now, click on the Files option to restart WSA.
Alternative: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Microsoft added file-sharing options to the Windows Subsystem for Android in the June Previews of Windows 11 for Windows Insiders.
