Googlebook laptops from five brands launched in early October. Source: Photo: Google
For those considering a Googlebook, the choice of chip is becoming increasingly significant. Recent reports from Android Authority indicate that certain demanding Android applications and games may not perform optimally on models powered by Intel processors. Out of the five laptops launched, three utilize Intel chips, while the remaining two are equipped with Qualcomm’s offerings. This revelation comes after pre-orders commenced, raising questions for potential buyers who were assured of full access to the Play Store library.
The chip problem
The core of the issue lies in the architectural differences between the processors. Most Android applications are designed for Arm processors, which are prevalent in mobile devices. Conversely, Intel’s laptop chips operate on an x86 architecture. Consequently, apps developed for Arm must undergo translation to function on x86, a process that, according to XDA Developers, can detrimentally impact both performance and battery life.
Google has reassured users that the majority of applications run smoothly across both Intel and Qualcomm platforms. However, it acknowledged that a “small handful” of more complex applications and games may require additional optimization from their developers when running on Intel. The company is actively collaborating with developers, Intel, and Qualcomm to address these challenges, although it has not disclosed which specific applications are affected, leaving consumers in a state of uncertainty regarding their preferred software.
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Which laptops
The Intel-powered models include the Acer Googlebook 14, ASUS Googlebook 14, and Lenovo Googlebook 15. In contrast, the Dell XPS and HP models leverage Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips, thereby avoiding the need for translation. The Acer model is priced starting at 9 in the United States and £999 in the United Kingdom.
These laptops became available for purchase on October 4 in the U.S. and October 5 in the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, and Australia. Initial demand has been robust, with reports indicating that the Acer model was particularly challenging to obtain at launch.
This scenario mirrors the early days of Windows on Arm, where x86 software had to be adapted for Arm architecture. In this case, however, the translation is occurring in the opposite direction, as mobile applications are being adapted for laptop processors.
What to do
For the average user, there is likely no immediate cause for concern. However, if you rely on specific resource-intensive applications or graphics-heavy games, it may be prudent to wait for reviews or opt for a Snapdragon model. Additionally, reviewing the app’s Play Store listing and developer notes prior to making a purchase could provide valuable insights.
The landscape of Googlebook hardware continues to evolve. Samsung’s inaugural Googlebook has recently surfaced on Geekbench, and MediaTek’s new 3nm chip is poised to target the same market segment. Both developments could potentially alter the dynamics between Intel and Arm processors, although no MediaTek devices have been officially announced as of yet.
