What you need to know
Google Drive for Desktop has made a significant leap forward by introducing support for Windows on Arm, a development that many users have eagerly anticipated. This new version of the app is currently in beta, which means that while it brings exciting features, users might encounter a few quirks along the way. However, for those familiar with setting up Google Drive on traditional Windows systems, transitioning to the Arm64 version should be a seamless experience.
- The native Drive for Desktop app operates similarly to its predecessor, with the primary distinction being its underlying architecture, now optimized for Arm64 support.
- Despite its advantages, the beta version does come with some limitations, notably the absence of the Outlook Meet plugin. This omission may disappoint users who rely heavily on Outlook for their scheduling and collaborative efforts.
- To take advantage of this new app, users will need a Windows 11 PC equipped with an Arm processor, as well as the WebView2 runtime from Microsoft.
The introduction of the native Drive for Desktop app marks a pivotal moment for Windows on Arm users. While the app is still in its beta phase, Google recommends that users utilize it with non-essential data or ensure they have backups, just in case. The app promises a more efficient and smoother experience for managing files compared to the web interface.
This release positions Google Drive as the second major application optimized for Windows on Arm, following the earlier adaptation of Google Chrome. Although Google has indicated that the Quick Share app is compatible with Windows on Arm, it operates through emulation, which can sometimes lead to performance issues.
As the landscape of computing evolves with the advent of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X platform and the emergence of energy-efficient laptops, app compatibility has become increasingly crucial. The long-awaited beta release of Google Drive for Desktop alleviates previous concerns and is likely to encourage greater adoption of Arm64 devices among users who seek powerful and efficient solutions for their computing needs.
