Creative Cloud Archives

Winsage

March 25, 2025

Windows-on-Arm woes: Amazon warns customers about Surface laptop returns

Qualcomm and Microsoft are enhancing the Windows-on-Arm ecosystem, highlighted during the Microsoft Build event in May 2024. The Surface brand laptops with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processors received positive feedback for performance and battery life. However, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (7th Edition) has been flagged by Amazon as a "frequently returned item," prompting buyers to check reviews. Customer feedback indicates that app compatibility issues are a primary reason for the returns. Intel's interim Co-CEO suggested that devices with Snapdragon chips are returned at higher rates due to unmet functionality expectations. Despite this, the market for Windows-on-Arm systems remains strong, with major manufacturers adopting Qualcomm's Snapdragon processors. Other Snapdragon-powered devices, like the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, have not faced similar return warnings. The Surface Laptop may have higher return rates due to its popularity and specific shortcomings noted in reviews, such as display quality and keyboard comfort. Microsoft also offers Intel versions of the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, which may confuse consumers. Qualcomm and Microsoft are working with developers to improve software support for Windows-on-Arm, with notable applications like DaVinci Resolve and Adobe Photoshop now available. Challenges remain, including Qualcomm's discontinuation of its Snapdragon Developer Kit for Windows and limited native support for some applications. Users with specialized needs may prefer traditional x86 Windows versions. Qualcomm plans to unveil its second generation of Snapdragon X processors in late 2025.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

WinApps: Virtualized Windows Apps On Linux, Plus Windowing

Linux users can now run the latest version of Photoshop on Linux machines with access to a dedicated mobile GPU, thanks to innovative open-source solutions. This is achieved through the WinApps project, which integrates a virtual machine into the Linux desktop using Remote Desktop Protocol, allowing Windows applications to run alongside native Linux programs. The setup requires significant effort, particularly in recognizing the GPU, but it enables heavy-duty applications to function effectively on machines like the HP Envy 16 with an Intel i7-12700H processor and 32GB of RAM. While WinApps offers substantial benefits for users relying on Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office 365, it is best suited for casual use due to potential bugs and performance issues. The development of WinApps reflects the contributions of various open-source teams, including those at Red Hat, and suggests future enhancements may improve accessibility for users.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Unblockable ads now litter Microsoft’s Windows Surface app

Microsoft's Surface app has transformed into a marketplace filled with advertisements, overshadowing its original purpose of device management. Users encounter promotional offers, including a 30% discount on an Xbox controller, prominently displayed at the bottom of the interface. Ads are integrated into the app, raising concerns about user consent, and persist even with ad blockers in Microsoft Edge. The app now resembles a shopping platform, which may dishearten users who expected a streamlined experience. This shift reflects a broader trend in Microsoft's ecosystem of frequent marketing pushes across platforms, potentially affecting customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Unwrap the magic of Windows 11 PCs this holiday

Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are introduced as innovative devices ideal for the holiday season, offering security features, performance for work and leisure, and AI-enabled functionalities. Notable models include: - Acer Swift Go 14 AI: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, up to 28 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Acer Swift X 14: Intel Core Ultra processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, 2.8K OLED display. Starting at ,299.99. - ASUS ProArt P16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,699.99. - ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,099.99. - Dell Inspiron 14 Plus: Snapdragon X Plus platform, up to 15 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Dell XPS 13: Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors, up to 26 hours battery life, FHD+ display. Starting at ,159.99. - HP OmniBook X: High-resolution display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at ,089.99. - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition: 15.3-inch display, 22 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Lenovo IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus CPU, 14-inch OLED screen. Starting at 9.99. - Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge: AMOLED display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Pro (11th Edition): AI-accelerated Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Laptop (7th Edition): Next-generation performance and Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. Various retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, offer these devices. Prices are U.S.-only and subject to change.

Winsage

November 15, 2024

Qualcomm’s x86 challenges with Windows on Arm

Qualcomm is working to establish Arm-based Windows laptops as a viable alternative in computing, utilizing Snapdragon processors that offer extended battery life, fanless designs, and integrated 5G connectivity. The company aims to address the software compatibility challenges faced by users of traditional x86 machines by relying on Microsoft's x86-64 emulation, which allows Arm devices to run x86 applications. However, this emulation often leads to performance issues and increased battery drain, particularly with demanding applications like Adobe Creative Cloud and AutoCAD. Qualcomm's strategy suggests a need for investment in native Windows on Arm software and a push for Microsoft to optimize Windows for Arm architecture. The company should also consider positioning Arm laptops as secondary devices for light tasks rather than direct competitors to x86 machines.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Microsoft tests emulator to bring support for x64 apps and games to Windows on Arm: What it means for users

Microsoft is testing a significant update for systems using Qualcomm's Arm-based processors, introduced in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build. This update includes a tool that enhances Copilot Plus PCs with Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus processors through its Prism emulation layer, allowing a wider range of x64 applications and games to run on these devices. The update aims to enable high-demand games like Starfield and Helldivers 2 on Arm-based Windows devices and is currently being trialed by Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel. The update improves the usability of 64-bit x86 software, providing access to processor extensions like AVX and AVX2, enhancing performance and compatibility. However, 32-bit software will still face limitations. Many applications, including Photoshop, Hulu, and Chrome, have transitioned to native ARM64 versions, while others rely on emulation. Adobe has re-enabled Premiere Pro for Windows 11 ARM devices powered by the Snapdragon X chip, allowing it to run under emulation after previously disabling it due to performance issues. Premiere Pro is now available within the Creative Cloud app, although performance may not match that of Intel or AMD-based machines. A native ARM version of Premiere Pro is in development, but no release date has been announced. Photoshop is currently the only Adobe application available natively for Windows on ARM, while other applications like After Effects are expected to gain support through emulation. Adobe's move aligns with its commitment to enhance its Creative Suite for Windows on ARM, and competitors like DaVinci Resolve are also working on native ARM versions of their software. Microsoft's Clipchamp has already been established as an ARM-native solution.

AppWizard

October 31, 2024

This app helped me track my monthly subscriptions, but it’s no silver bullet

SubX is a subscription tracker app for Android that features an extensive database of subscriptions, allowing users to easily add services tailored to their region. It notifies users of price increases and provides historical pricing data, helping users stay informed about their financial commitments. The app displays total subscription expenses prominently on the home page, alongside income figures if provided. However, SubX requires a one-time payment to unlock additional features and has a free version limit of four entries. The user interface can feel cluttered, though users can hide unnecessary elements. Alternatives to SubX include Tilla, which has a more user-friendly interface but fewer advanced features, Recurring Expense Tracker, which offers a clean design and biometric security, and Subscriptions, which has shifted to a subscription model.

Winsage

September 5, 2024

Microsoft offers tips for long startup times on Windows PCs

Microsoft has launched a support page to help users optimize startup times for Windows PCs, focusing on managing startup applications that affect boot-up speed. 1. Settings: Users can go to Settings > Apps > Startup to disable resource-heavy applications that launch automatically during boot-up, such as web browsers, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Creative Cloud, Steam, and Discord. 2. Task Manager: Accessed via the taskbar or Ctrl + Shift + Esc, the Task Manager's Startup apps tab shows the status and impact of applications on startup delays, allowing users to disable them. 3. File Explorer: Users can manage startup applications through the Startup folder by using the Run command with shortcuts: shell:startup for the current user's folder and shell:common startup for all users. Deleting shortcuts from these folders prevents applications from launching at startup. 4. Registry: Advanced users can modify startup applications in the Windows Registry at specific paths, though caution is advised to avoid system instability. Additionally, Microsoft suggests using the free PC Manager tool to optimize system resources and offers various tips for improving overall Windows performance.

Winsage

August 31, 2024

MacBook vs Windows: Which is the best laptop for students?

The 2024 Back to School sales season has started, leading students and parents to search for laptops suitable for academic tasks and entertainment. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M3 (2024) is priced at ,299 / £1,399 / AU,999, while the Dell XPS 13 (2024) starts at ,299 / £1,099 / AU,098.80. More budget-friendly options include the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 at 9 / £1,049.99 / AU,899, though MacBook Air models can be found for under ,000. MacBooks run on macOS, while Windows laptops use Windows, leading to different user experiences. MacBooks are favored for productivity and creative tasks due to Apple's M-series chips and software like Final Cut Pro and Creative Cloud. Windows laptops offer more customization and are better for gaming due to broader compatibility. In terms of design, MacBooks have a sleek, uniform appearance with limited ports, while Windows laptops come in various designs and configurations. Performance-wise, MacBooks are known for their powerful CPUs and battery life, often exceeding 14 hours. Recent Qualcomm AI PCs have begun to match or exceed MacBooks in battery performance. Choosing between a MacBook and a Windows laptop depends on individual needs, with MacBooks being better for creative work and Windows laptops excelling in gaming. Familiarity with the operating system and personal preferences regarding design and pricing also play significant roles in the decision-making process.

Winsage

August 6, 2024

Windows 11 laptops with Snapdragon X ARM chips can now run Adobe Premiere Pro under emulation

Adobe has launched the x86 version of Premiere Pro for Windows 11 on ARM devices using Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors, operating under emulation until an ARM-native version is developed. Premiere Pro was previously allowed to run under emulation but was temporarily disabled due to performance issues. It has now returned to the Creative Cloud app, with improvements made. The application may perform slower than on Intel or AMD machines but is adequate for basic video projects at 1080p resolution. Adobe is working on an ARM-native version, but no timeline for its release has been provided. Currently, Photoshop is the only Adobe application available natively for Windows on ARM, with others like After Effects expected to follow later this year. Other software, such as DaVinci Resolve and Microsoft's Clipchamp, are already available in native formats for Windows on ARM.