Recently, we had covered some of the best ways to run Windows apps on macOS. The point was to overcome the lack of multi-platform software. This time, however, we have something different. We are going to talk about the ways to run Android apps on Mac. Yes, about using Instagram, playing Asphalt 8, or listening to Audible on Mac.
Finding a great Android File Transfer App for Mac OS is a vital. There are some great options out there to sync and transfer files between Mac OS X and Android, you just have to find the right one. In this article we have reviewed what we think are the best apps for connecting your Android to your Mac. Best Android file transfer apps for Mac OS X.
This time too, we have found multiple ways to run Android apps on macOS. Since different people have their different purposes, we’ve different methods too. In this article, you will find the best methods to run Android apps on Mac for normal users, gaming enthusiasts and developers. Shall we now check out the options?
Run Android Apps on Mac
- BlueStacks App Player. Well, BlueStack is one of the leading Android emulators available for.
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#1 BlueStacks — Best for Running Apps
BlueStacks (also called BlueStacks App Player) is the oldest and the most popular way of running Android apps for Mac. You will be able to run almost any Android app using this simple emulator. It’s the best choice if you want to run WhatsApp on your Mac or access your Instagram account. You will be able to run your Mac apps and Android apps side by side, which is great.
The BlueStacks interface is equally awesome as well. Apps are opened in individual tabs and you have access to Google Play Store. How to download apps on macbook pro. Depending on the specifications of your Mac, BlueStacks lets you handle multiple apps with ease. Despite the optimizations for running apps, BlueStacks offers a true Android feel as well. You can even make changes from the Settings section.
Installing and using BlueStacks is like a piece of cake! You have to download the free installer from the official site of BlueStacks and run it. If you have previously installed bluestack, do a clean uninstall, before you reinstall it. Once the installation is done, it may take a few seconds for starting up. Before you can install apps, however, you need to sign into a Google account. Altogether, we think it’s really easy to get started with BlueStacks.
As far as running apps is concerned, BlueStacks does the job very well. We were able to install and use apps like WhatsApp and Instagram without any hassle. We also tried playing some Alto’s Odyssey game.
Pros
- BlueStacks is really easy to set up
- It doesn’t involve long installation processes
- Performance is optimized for apps
Cons
- Not much suitable for games or development
Who Is It For
We think BlueStacks is the best option for those who need to use Android apps on Mac. It works fine when it comes to running apps like WhatsApp and Instagram. While the gaming performance is okay, we believe there are better options.
Check Out BlueStacks
#2 VirtualBox — Best for More Control
At the core, Android is also a Linux-based operating system. As it happens, you can install Android on Mac using a tool like VirtualBox. In order to do this, you have to create a virtual machine and install Android in it. Compared to the other options we’ve listed, this VirtualBox method offers better control over the Android device and the apps you install.
Once the installation is done, VirtualBox gives you a pure Android experience. This is because we’re installing the basic Android Operating System on the virtual machine. However, you should not expect an optimized environment for running apps or games. Chances are, there are some bugs too. On the bright side, you can deploy Android v8 Oreo in the virtual machine.
We would not say that Android on VirtualBox is easy to set up. There are some downsides that you will have to tolerate in the long run. In order to do this, you need to download Android x86, a project that ports the popular OS to PCs. Then, as we always do, you can create a virtual machine based on Linux, Android. Once the installation is done, you’ll have a full-screen Android experience.
While apps like WhatsApp and Instagram work fine, the performance isn’t the best. We would not suggest this method if you’re into gaming either.
Pros
- Offers more control over the virtual Android device
- You can run the latest version of Android
- It offers a fully-fledged Android OS experience
Cons
- Installation is somewhat complex
- Lacks performance optimization or customization options
- Chances of bugs
Who Is It For
Running Android on Mac using VirtualBox is best when you need better control over the process. As a virtual machine, you can customize performance too. However, in the long run, you will have to compromise overall performance and gaming controls.
Check Out VirtualBox and Android x86
#3 Nox Player Mac — Best Optimized for Gaming
If you want to play some graphic-rich Android games on Mac, Nox Player Mac is the best option in town. It’s an Android emulator that prioritizes speed and performance. There are also some features such as screen capture, on-screen button mapping etc. Once set up, Nox Player Mac offers a standard Android experience as well.
Nox Player Mac manages to run apps as well. However, we found that things aren’t as smooth as BlueStacks when it comes to app downloads and installs. But, the reason you should install Nox Player Mac should be to play high-quality games like PUBG on Mac.
To install Android apps on your Nox Player, you can either login with your Google account and use the built-in Google Play Store or if you don’t want to go through that hassle, you can download the apk using the browser and install it directly.
Nox Player Mac is the easiest to install. It doesn’t even ask you any questions. Just run the installer and in a few seconds, you will find the fully-fledged Android virtual tablet. It runs Android v4 KitKat — which is a downside when compared to others.
Nox Player Mac is perfect when it comes to handling popular apps. So, if you want to bring some common apps and high-end Android games to Mac, choose this program.
Pros
- Easy to set up and get started
- Optimized performance for games and apps
- Advanced features like keyboard mapping and location manipulation
Cons
- Not suitable for development
- Runs on Android KitKat
- Ships with some bloatware
Who Is It For
Nox Player Mac is the best option if you’re into high-end Android games. Even if you have a mid-end MacBook Air, it should offer the best performance. Also, thanks to the macro and mapping features. We’d also recommend the tool for running WhatsApp and all.
#4 Genymotion — Most Suitable for Developers
Genymotion is an innovative way to run Android apps on Mac — and on Cloud, for that matter. However, it is offering a bunch of different options. If you’re a professional, you can create a virtual Android device on a Mac or in the cloud. Let’s come down to the Desktop version, which is great. You will be able to create a big variety of Android configurations for testing.
For instance, you can change the Android version, device hardware etc. Genymotion is the best option to make sure that your app runs perfectly on all Android devices out there. However, if you are getting started as a developer, you can find standard solutions as well. Genymotion also offers some additional features, for instance, embed your Android app on the website and let people try the app.
There is no necessity that you should install Genymotion on your Mac. As we said earlier, it can be used as a cloud service as well. However, Genymotion Desktop is really easy to install. We used the Personal version of Genymotion as well. It’s more convenient if you just want to try some apps. On the other hand, if you like the fully-fledged Android development experience, Genymotion Desktop is the way to go.
Running apps on Genymotion isn’t as smooth as the other platform. This is because the emulator has a major focus on features that help developers.
Pros
- Awesome features for developers
- Multiple Android configurations
- Better Control over Running Apps
- Performance Optimization could be better
Who Is It For
Genymotion is the best solution for Android developers who want to run their Android apps on a number of virtual devices. It syncs so well with your coding process and customization needs. Thanks to the plug-in, you can integrate this program with Android Studio as well.
Check Out Genymotion (free trial, $136/year)
#5 Andy — a Smoother Workflow
Last but not the least, Andy is another way to run Android apps on Mac. However, compared to all emulators we’ve listed above, Andy offers a smoother workflow. The best part is that you’re getting a 100% full Android experience when you start up. You get built-in apps like Gmail, ES File Explorer and a lot more. It’s running on Android v4.0 KitKat, though.
Because Andy comes with Play Store access, you can easily download and install apps. There are some other important features as well. For instance, you can run the Android emulator in vertical and landscape modes as well. Also, there’s Key Mapping and Location manipulation. These features are awesome when you want a more optimized way to run Android apps.
Andy has one of the easiest installers we’ve seen. It’s an online installer, which would download files over an Internet connection. It needs to be noted that Andy downloads around 500MB of files, the largest on the list. Once the installation is done, Andy will show you the standard Android interface. You can use the mouse and keyboard for managing the virtual Android tablet.
As we said, Andy is the best when it comes to running apps. However, it would not be our go-to choice when it comes to playing Android games.
Pros
- Easy to Install and Manage
- Best optimization for apps
- Offers a standard Android experience
Cons
- Runs on KitKat
- It’s lagging a bit when other apps are running
Who Is It For
Andy offers the perfect level of optimization and a standard Android experience. We’d recommend this tool if you need a real-like virtual Android device on your Mac. Of course, there are some performance lags but you can avoid it by avoiding multitasking.
Check Out Andy (Free)
The best way to Run Android Apps on Mac?
So, these are the five different ways to run Android apps on Mac. In a way, you’re creating an Android device within macOS environment as well. As we said earlier, not a single solution is suitable for everyone. We have recommended Nox Player for Mac if you want to play games. On the other hand, if you just want to use apps smoothly, BlueStacks and Andy are the best options. And, for those upcoming developers out there, we will recommend Genymotion, which has a ton of features packed inside.
FaceTime, the proprietary audio and video calling service from Apple is exclusive for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It is not yet available on any other operating system. Still, people on the green team are eager to use FaceTime on Android. As of now, the only practical solution is to rely on FaceTime alternative apps for Android.
Why Use FaceTime?
- FaceTime audio & video calls are completely free and end to end encrypted
- The video quality is top-notch and the integration with Siri is also excellent
- It supports group call with up to 32 people
Can you use FaceTime on Android?
The straightforward answer is No. It is not just possible yet! If you search for FaceTime on Google Play Store, you see multiple imposter apps. They are all fake and may also contain malware. At best, they may be another video calling apps that have copied the name and try to make money on FaceTime’s popularity. I strongly advise that you stay away from such apps.
Instead of hoping to make a FaceTime call from your Android, it is better to use legit FaceTime-like Apps on your Android already available on play store. Take a look at some of the best and secure audio and video calling apps available on Android, iOS, and other platforms.
FaceTime Alternative Android Apps to Make Video Calls
#1. Google Duo
There is no doubt that Google makes some of the finest apps and services. Duo is no exception, as it has been built with everybody in mind. A person with little technical knowledge or a person with a slow internet can also enjoy audio and video calls using it.
From Android 10, Google Duo is provided by default. The setup process is smooth, and you can use it on Android, iPhone, iPad, and also web. Most of the time, video quality is excellent, and there is no lag. As of now, you can group call with up to 8 people.
#2. Skype
Owned by Microsoft, Skype has been around since 2003. It is still one of the best trustworthy audio and video calling services that works on almost all platforms. It is available for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, HoloLens, Xbox One, web, and even Windows Phone!
Skype is perfect for business use (has a separate app) as well as personal use. It lets you video call with up to 50 people at the same time. It is quick to sign up and gets you going in moments.
#3. Viber
I first used Viber in the year 2013. Currently, it has around a billion registered users and serves as a great app for rich messaging and calls. You can use it on multiple platforms like Android, iPhone & iPad, Windows PC, Mac, or even Linux.
Viber also lets you make cheap calls to landlines with Viber Out. Self-destructing secret chats, group call with five people, and end-to-end encryption, make it a good FaceTime alternative.
Android App For Macbook
#4. Facebook Messenger
If you are reading this post, chances are you have heard of Facebook and its Messenger app. Now it has been spun from core Facebook, and you can even use it without an FB account!
The app is updated almost every other week and is polished continuously to eliminate bugs as well as bring new features. Messenger lets 50 people join a call, but at a single time, you can see up to 6 people.
#5. WhatsApp
Similar to Messenger, WhatsApp is also owned by Facebook. It is one of the most popular messaging apps of all time, with over 1.6 billion users. WhatsApp is clean and simple to use as there are no ads or distractions. The interface is candid and pleasing.
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You can enjoy rich messaging with stickers, voice note, or share files. It also lets you group call with up to four people. In many parts of the world, it is omnipresent and one of the perfect FaceTime alternatives.
Other FaceTime Alternatives for Android
Why You Can’t Get FaceTime for Android?
Business, user retention, and exclusivity are the reasons! As said in the top para, many people keep using iOS just because of FaceTime and iMessage. It is a glue that has kept users in the Apple ecosystem.
Once Apple lets FaceTime on the Play Store, a considerable user base may shift to Android. Now, you may argue that Apple Music is already available on Android. But the business strategy for this service is different. Apple Music has a subscription cost but FaceTime is free.
Also, in the music streaming sector, Apple had to make its way. So being rigid would not have helped. But FaceTime has been there in the Apple ecosystem since 2010 when there was less competition. And somehow, platform exclusivity has worked for them.
So, despite all the buzz and hopes, I do not think FaceTime and iMessage will leave the Apple barricade anytime soon.
Until then, I hope you enjoy talking to your kids, family, and loved ones using one of the cross-platform apps mentioned in this post.
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What are your thoughts regarding FaceTime on Android? Please share with us in comments down below.
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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