Qualcomm Archives

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Leaked Android desktop UI looks like a Windows rival

Google has unveiled a desktop-class version of Android, potentially named Aluminium OS, through a developer video showcasing a windowed interface designed for PCs with multitasking features. This new operating system could challenge Microsoft’s Windows 11, particularly in low-end laptop and cloud-centric segments. The video features an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook running an internal build of Aluminium OS, which appears to be optimized for larger screens and retains familiar Android indicators. Lenovo has noted potential challenges for Android PCs, including limited desktop features and app compatibility issues. Google may integrate its Gemini technology into Aluminium OS, which features a taskbar with a centrally located Start button and redesigned mouse cursor. The operating system supports multitasking, allowing multiple Google Chrome windows in split-screen mode, and includes an Extensions button. Qualcomm is set to launch next-generation Android PCs later this year.

AppWizard

January 28, 2026

Our first look at Google’s Android desktop makes its Chrome OS replacement feel real

A leaked Chromium bug report has revealed a screen recording of Google's upcoming Aluminium OS desktop platform, which resembles both ChromeOS and Android 16's desktop mode. Key features include a taller status bar displaying the date and time, Android-inspired icons, and redesigned window controls. The start button is centrally located on the bottom bar, and the mouse cursor has a new design. The leak indicates that Aluminium OS is being developed to unify the desktop experience, with expectations for Android-powered PCs to launch later this year and collaborations with brands for Android PCs planned for 2026.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Xbox App officially launches on ARM-based Windows 11 PCs from Microsoft

Microsoft has launched an ARM-compatible version of its Xbox App, enhancing the gaming ecosystem for ARM-based Windows 11 devices. Over 85% of the current Game Pass library is functional on ARM systems, although full compatibility remains exclusive to x86-based systems. Gamers can access unsupported titles through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Microsoft’s Prism emulation layer allows native x86 and x64 applications to run on ARM PCs, with recent updates improving Game Pass compatibility. Popular titles like Gears of War: Reloaded and Fortnite now support ARM. This development encourages innovation from companies like Nvidia and Qualcomm, while the gap in game compatibility between ARM and x86 architectures is closing. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D is highlighted as a top choice for building or upgrading gaming PCs.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

We’re talking about the best of Windows 11, and we want your input.

Expressions of affection for Windows are common, and while the author acknowledges some shortcomings in Windows 11, it remains an essential tool for productivity, creativity, and communication. Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus platform is expected to indicate a significant transition toward Arm-based Windows devices. The Microsoft Store has become a reliable platform for discovering and downloading applications on Windows. Recent enhancements in Windows 11 have improved the experience for handheld gaming PCs. The Windows Package Manager, or winget, is highly regarded, and PowerToys is recommended as essential for Windows 11 users. The Command Palette allows users to launch applications using the keyboard and execute commands. The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) provides a genuine Linux experience within Windows 11. Phone Link facilitates effortless photo transfers. The 12-inch Surface LCD is slightly thinner than the Surface Pro 11. The Windows Central community is engaged in discussions about the standout features of Windows 11.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Your first Windows on ARM gaming laptop may be a Lenovo Legion

Lenovo is potentially leading the transition of Windows on ARM gaming laptops to mainstream offerings, with indications of a new Legion 7 model featuring NVIDIA’s N1X designation. The naming conventions of Lenovo's products suggest a broader strategy, as recent discoveries show multiple models with N1 and N1X tags across various product families. The Legion 7, a 15-inch model, stands out as it signifies a commitment to high performance. However, challenges remain regarding Windows gaming on ARM, particularly in terms of driver compatibility and performance across major titles. The significance of the Legion branding suggests confidence in the gaming experience on this platform. Confirmation of specifications and performance benchmarks will be crucial to validate the capabilities of the N1X model. For those prioritizing compatibility, conventional Windows gaming machines are still recommended, but potential buyers should monitor for Legion 7 N1X listings and details.

AppWizard

January 22, 2026

Arm-Based Windows 11 PCs Can Now Download and Play Games from the Xbox App

Microsoft's Xbox app on Windows 11 now supports game downloads on all ARM-based PCs, expanding functionality beyond cloud gaming for Qualcomm-powered devices. This update follows an initial rollout for Xbox Insiders in August, coinciding with Epic Games' compatibility of its Easy Anti-Cheat system with Windows on ARM. The Prism emulator was updated in December to support more x86 games on ARM devices, and the Xbox app now includes a Windows Performance Fit feature to assess game performance based on hardware. Over 85% of the Game Pass catalog is compatible with ARM PCs, with ongoing efforts to increase support. Emulation performance has improved on Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series chips, with further enhancements expected from upcoming X2 series chips, although native ARM64 game versions are still anticipated.

Winsage

January 22, 2026

This Android phone could double as your next Windows PC, but you won’t want it to

The NexPhone is developed by the team behind the NexDock and aims to transform smartphones into versatile computing devices. It features a 6.58-inch FHD+ 120Hz display, a 64MP Sony IMX787 camera, and 12GB of RAM. The device runs on Android 16 and supports multi-boot capabilities, allowing users to run Linux (Debian) and Windows 11. It is powered by Qualcomm’s QCM6490 SoC, which is designed for IoT applications and may not provide optimal performance for Windows. The NexPhone has a 5,000mAh battery and is priced at 9, with a launch scheduled for Q3 2026.

Winsage

January 21, 2026

This midrange Android phone also runs Windows and Linux

Nex Computer has introduced the NexPhone, a midrange smartphone that can transform into a fully functional computer when connected to a monitor. It features dual-boot capabilities into Windows 11 and offers both Android and Linux operating systems. The device has a mobile interface similar to Windows Phone when unplugged. It is powered by a Qualcomm QCM6490 chipset, meets MIL-STD-810H standards, and is rated IP68 and IP69 for dust and water resistance. The NexPhone includes a 5,000mAh battery, a 64-megapixel rear camera, and supports wireless charging. It is expected to ship in the third quarter of 2026, with a price of 9, and customers can reserve it with a refundable deposit of .

Winsage

January 20, 2026

NVIDIA-powered Windows on Arm laptops may launch in 2026 — new report suggests it’s actually happening

NVIDIA's N1X laptops are expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026, shifting from an initial 2025 timeline. The NVIDIA N1 chip is currently operational in the DGX Spark AI supercomputer, showcasing performance capabilities. The N1X is anticipated to target the high-end market, while Qualcomm's Snapdragon X chips remain aimed at budget-conscious consumers. The introduction of N1X-powered devices could enhance the Windows on Arm ecosystem and increase competition in the market.

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Microsoft Fixes 114 Windows Flaws in January 2026 Patch, One Actively Exploited

On Tuesday, Microsoft released its first security update for 2026, addressing 114 vulnerabilities, including eight classified as Critical and 106 as Important. The vulnerabilities include 58 related to privilege escalation, 22 concerning information disclosure, 21 linked to remote code execution, and five categorized as spoofing flaws. A notable vulnerability, CVE-2026-20805, involves information disclosure within the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) and has a CVSS score of 5.5. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has added this flaw to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, requiring federal agencies to implement fixes by February 3, 2026. Additionally, Microsoft announced the expiration of three Windows Secure Boot certificates issued in 2011, effective June 2026, urging customers to transition to newer certificates to avoid disruptions. The update also removed vulnerable Agere Soft Modem drivers due to a local privilege escalation flaw (CVE-2023-31096) and addressed another critical privilege escalation flaw in Windows Virtualization-Based Security (CVE-2026-20876) with a CVSS score of 6.7. Other vendors, including Adobe, Amazon Web Services, and Cisco, have also released security patches for various vulnerabilities.