Snapdragon processors Archives

AppWizard

November 26, 2025

Android set to lead Google’s charge into the PC market

Google is considering a new initiative called Aluminium, which aims to adapt Android's features for laptops and desktops, focusing on ARM architecture and improving multitasking, keyboard-and-mouse input, and file management. Android has over 3 billion active devices globally, while ChromeOS has a low market share in the PC sector. Android has evolved with updates like Android 12L, enhancing usability on large screens, and real-world implementations like Samsung DeX show its potential as a desktop OS. However, challenges remain regarding app usability on larger displays, and improvements in performance, security, and enterprise readiness are needed. Google plans to develop a refined Desktop Mode, implement UX guidelines, establish a native Linux workspace, enhance file access, integrate audio features, and collaborate with OEMs for compatible hardware.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

Qualcomm says 90% of top Windows games will run on Snapdragon X2 laptops — is Windows on Arm gaming finally here?

Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon X2 Elite and X2 Elite Extreme, which are expected to significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of Windows laptops. Initial benchmarks show that the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme performs well in single-core, multi-core, and GPU metrics, making it suitable for both productivity and gaming. Over 90% of the most played Windows games will be compatible at launch on devices using these new processors, which offer up to 2.3 times higher efficiency than previous models. Qualcomm has also launched the Snapdragon Control Panel to optimize game performance and ensure up-to-date drivers. The Snapdragon X2 Elite supports AVX2 emulation for running certain games via Microsoft's Prism Emulator, and there is ongoing development of kernel-level anti-cheat support for Windows on Snapdragon. Microsoft reports that 90% of user activity on Windows 11 on ARM involves native applications, indicating improved compatibility. New laptops featuring these Snapdragon processors are expected to debut in the first half of 2026, with previews potentially at CES in January.

Winsage

November 20, 2025

2025 Windows 11 PC holiday buying guide: Best devices and deals

The holiday season is an ideal time to gift a Windows 11 PC, which can enhance gaming setups, assist with creative projects, and simplify daily tasks. Windows 11 PCs now feature Copilot, an AI-powered assistant that streamlines tasks through voice commands. A survey shows that over half of Gen Z and Millennials use generative AI weekly. Various Windows 11 PCs are available for different users, including: - Lenovo Legion 5 15": A gaming laptop with AMD Ryzen 7 260 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 graphics, starting at ,249.99 MSRP, currently ,169.99 at Walmart. - ROG Xbox Ally: A portable gaming device starting at 9.99, available at Microsoft.com and Best Buy. - Dell 16 Plus Laptop: Designed for students, starting at ,149.99 MSRP. - Samsung Galaxy Book5 360: A versatile 2-in-1 PC starting at ,349.99 MSRP. - Acer Aspire 14 AI: A portable laptop starting at 9.99 MSRP at Costco.com. - ASUS Zenbook 14: Lightweight with multi-day battery life, starting at 9 MSRP at Walmart. - Lenovo Yoga 7 2-in-1 Copilot+ PC: Starting at ,199.99 at Best Buy. - Surface Pro 12-inch: A portable 2-in-1 device starting at 9.99 MSRP at Best Buy. - HP OmniBook 5 14-inch: Offers long battery life, starting at 9.99 MSRP. - Surface Laptop 13-inch: Lightweight with AI features, starting at 9.99 MSRP at Best Buy. Retailers like Microsoft, Best Buy, and Costco offer significant holiday deals on these PCs, with discounts and promotions available. Microsoft.com features exclusive deals, price protection, and free shipping until January 31, 2026. Xbox deals include discounts on games and accessories, with Xbox Game Pass Premium subscriptions and Microsoft gift cards available as gift options.

Winsage

November 17, 2025

I tried 3 Windows laptops with Qualcomm chipsets this year – and found 3 glaring issues

Last year, Microsoft introduced Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, prompting the purchase of a Surface Pro 11, which became essential for daily tasks. This led to acquiring additional devices, including a Surface Laptop and a Dell XPS 13, both with Snapdragon X Elite chips. Despite effective marketing, businesses remain cautious about these devices. Windows on Arm has improved for Office applications and web services, with devices maintaining cool temperatures and long battery life. However, there are limitations: backup software may not work effectively on Arm devices, as external drives are inaccessible during recovery, necessitating workarounds like network or cloud storage. Installing Linux on Snapdragon-powered PCs is challenging due to a lack of compatible installation images, making Intel-based PCs more practical for work tasks. Additionally, Arm-based devices have performance constraints for gaming, with Snapdragon processors unable to compete with dedicated GPUs, making high-performance gaming unfeasible.

Winsage

November 10, 2025

Windows 11 26H1 coming for new processors only

Microsoft has announced the upcoming release of Windows 11 version 26H1, focusing on compatibility with specific silicon, likely Qualcomm's Snapdragon processors. The new build, 28000, has appeared in the Windows Insider Canary channel, marking a shift from previous numbering conventions. This release is the first H1 update for Windows 11, following the last H2 release, 24H2. The 26H1 update will not enhance version 25H2 but will modify the platform for specific silicon advancements, particularly Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Elite and Elite Extreme chips, expected to launch in the first half of 2026. Version 25H2 will continue to provide new features, while version 26H1 prepares for future processors, with a subsequent 26H2 release planned for later in 2026. Microsoft has also introduced updates in the Dev and Beta channels to enhance user experience.

AppWizard

October 21, 2025

Google Pixel 10 Debuts GPU-Accelerated Linux Apps in Android Terminal

Google has introduced a feature in its Pixel 10 smartphone that allows Linux applications to run efficiently on the Android platform, utilizing GPU-accelerated rendering within Android’s Terminal app for near-native performance. This capability, part of the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 update, is exclusive to the Pixel 10 and is made possible by the integration of the Gfxstream library. The Pixel 10's Tensor G5 processor and PowerVR GPU facilitate this advancement, which enhances app performance and expands Android's utility for professional workflows. However, challenges such as compatibility issues and the need for further optimization remain. There is speculation about whether this feature will be available on older Pixel models or non-Google devices, depending on collaborations with chipmakers like Qualcomm. The advancement could accelerate the convergence of mobile and desktop operating systems, particularly benefiting developers in fields like AI and machine learning. Despite ongoing GPU-related issues in gaming, the integration of GPU acceleration may lead to more ambitious applications in the future.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Google Teases Android for PC to Converge Mobile and Desktop Experiences

Qualcomm's 10th annual Snapdragon Summit featured discussions on Google's re-entry into the PC ecosystem through the Android for PC initiative, which aims to unify mobile and desktop experiences. Google plans to merge its ChromeOS and Android for PC projects into a single platform, leveraging advanced AI technologies like Gemini. Qualcomm's CEO expressed excitement about the convergence of mobile and PC technologies. Additionally, Google launched the Google App for Windows desktop PCs, allowing users to search across various sources on their devices, marking an effort to expand its presence in the desktop application market.

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Explore what’s new: September 2025 security update for Windows 11

On September 9, 2025, Microsoft will roll out its Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, featuring security enhancements, performance improvements, and new features. Key updates include: 1. A redesigned homepage for the Recall app for easier access to search options and recent activities. 2. An interactive tutorial for the Click to Do application, which launches on first use and can be accessed from the menu. 3. A clock displaying seconds in the Notification Center, which can be activated through Settings. 4. A grid view format for photo results in Windows Search, with notifications for limited search results during indexing. 5. A redesign of Windows Hello components to modernize the authentication visuals. 6. Enhancements to the Settings app, including an AI agent for locating system settings and a new "Recent activity" option for third-party app requests. 7. Updates to the Task Manager for more consistent CPU usage metrics. 8. Introduction of Windows Backup for Organizations for enterprise-grade backup and restore capabilities. 9. Improvements to File Explorer, including organized context menus and user activity display on the Home page. Additional features are expected in future updates, including a "Your Device Info" card and more legacy Control Panel functionalities.

Winsage

August 2, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows Recall is reportedly still capturing passwords and Social Security numbers even after its relaunch

The Microsoft Windows Recall AI app, designed to take screenshots of user activities, has faced security concerns regarding its ability to protect sensitive information. Initially launched in summer 2024 with Copilot+ PCs, it was retracted due to issues capturing sensitive data but returned to Windows Insiders in April 2025. Testing by The Register revealed that while the app's "Filter sensitive information" feature blocked some financial data, it still captured sensitive information like bank balances and failed to recognize variations in phrasing. Users can block specific applications or websites from being captured, but this may limit the app's utility. Recall is intended for laptops with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, and opting for devices with Intel or AMD chips can help mitigate security risks. Microsoft is reportedly working on improving the app's security features, but its future remains uncertain.

Winsage

August 2, 2025

8 new features arriving with the August 2025 Security Update for Windows 11

On August 12, 2025, Microsoft will roll out the August 2025 Security Update for Windows 11, which includes significant security enhancements and new features. Key improvements in version 24H2 include: - A complete reset feature for Windows Recall. - Enhanced AI actions for Click to Do. - A redesigned Search settings page. - A new gamepad keyboard layout with PIN sign-in support. - The Reading Coach app available through the Microsoft Store, allowing users to utilize Click to Do while on a snapshot. - A new action for Microsoft 365 Copilot subscribers called "Draft with Copilot in Word." - A new AI agent in the Settings app that improves the search experience using natural language. - Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) feature to minimize downtime from boot failures, enabled by default for Windows 11 Home users. - Upgraded Snap Layouts feature with inline descriptions. - Consolidation of "Search permissions" and "Searching Windows" into a single "Search" page. - Enhanced gamepad touch keyboard layout for quicker PIN sign-ins. - Replacement of the Blue Screen of Death with a new black error page that presents essential information. The update will be automatically downloaded and installed, with options for manual checks via Settings > Windows Update.