An emulator consists of software whose main function is to reproduce the behavior of a certain application, game or operating system on a computer where it is not compatible, or has not been developed for it. In this way, the computer or device on which we run the emulator behaves like the OS we are trying to imitate, or simply makes the application work without problems.
For example, today we can find different applications that offer us the possibility of emulating Windows on macOS, so that they even offer us the possibility of installing Windows on a Mac, although on this specific occasion it is not a rough installation (for example, installing the OS in a partition of the hard disk), but it is done through the emulator itself.
What exactly is BlueStacks?
BlueStacks consists of free software that offers us the possibility of using Android applications on any other mobile device, PC or Mac . Therefore, it is ideal for games and all the applications that we find on Google Play, which are no longer reserved solely for use on Android smartphones and tablets, but can be downloaded and used on the computer.
It is, no doubt, a very useful option for those who do not have mobile devices or for those who simply prefer to try a certain application or game and do not want to get hold of an Android phone (effectively, it is useful for Apple users) .
Although it is not exactly like having Android on our phone, BlueStacks is characterized by being easy to use. In addition, its possibilities are quite high, especially if we consider that it allows us to install all Android apps and games directly from the Play Store.
On the other hand, another of the added advantages is related to the fact that originally it only needs quite modest system requirements, being able to work on computers with Windows 10 or on Mac with at least macOS Sierra.
How does BlueStacks work?
As with any other emulator, BlueStacks creates a virtual version of an Android device, which runs specifically in a window on our computer .
Although for this reason we should not see it as an identical example to using an Android device, it does perform the functions of this operating system when it comes to downloading and using apps developed exclusively for this Google OS.
To use them, we simply have to install the software on the computer and, once installed, we have two options: start a new collection of applications by installing those that appear in BlueStacks, or, if we have an Android device, synchronize the applications installed in your phone or tablet with your computer.
Of course, it is necessary to take into account something fundamental: not all apps or games work . However, at least for the moment BlueStacks does offer a great variety, especially when it comes to games.
In any case, if we have the .apk file of a certain app (the executable file of the application), the program allows us to install it directly from the toolbar.
Another advantage has to do with the integration of the program with devices and peripherals of the PC , since the program is capable of integrating perfectly with the mouse, keyboard or the webcam, and they will work as if they were integrated with our Android device.
On the other hand, if you install games, most have a series of predefined controls that make the best use of both the mouse and the computer keyboard, although BlueStacks also offers us the possibility to change and customize them.
