Windows ARM Archives

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Windows 11 for Arm can run natively on specific Android smartphones — the test device heats up very fast, and battery life substantially decreases

User anh0l demonstrated running Windows 11 on Arm from a Xiaomi Poco X3 smartphone, which retains a split partition for Android and has a functioning UEFI. Users reported touchscreen control issues, particularly with inverted functionality on the right side, and temperature spikes reaching approximately 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit) during testing. Other Android smartphones have also experienced similar temperature levels. The Xiaomi Poco X3 can run Valve's retired Source engine at 30 FPS but struggles with Source 2-based Counter-Strike 2. Compatibility is better with Snapdragon 800 Series or newer CPUs, while older models are less effective. The shared architecture between Snapdragon CPUs in Windows Arm laptops and Android devices allows for this crossover, though driver support is incomplete. Despite high temperatures, anh0l claims the experience "runs flawlessly," with web browsing and basic Blender animations functioning smoothly at 120 Hz, impacting battery life and device temperature.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Windows 11 KB5046740 update released with 14 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the November 2024 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, designated as KB5046740, which includes 14 enhancements and fixes, particularly for File Explorer, Clipboard history, and secondary displays. This update is part of Microsoft's optional non-security preview updates, allowing Windows administrators to test upcoming features and fixes. Notable features include improved content sharing with Android devices via File Explorer, enhancements to text-to-speech and speech-to-text functionalities, and resolutions for technical issues like lag on secondary displays and empty Clipboard history. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 systems to build 26100.2454 and introduces changes such as a shortened date and time in the system tray, rebranding of Tailored Experiences to Personalized offers, the ability to open jump list items as an admin, and fixes for pointer location circles on some displays. Microsoft will not release a non-security preview update in December 2024 due to limited operations during the holidays but will provide a monthly security release. Known issues affecting gamers on Windows Arm devices and certain USB DAC sound systems have been acknowledged. The Windows 11 24H2 update began rolling out in October, serving as a comprehensive upgrade for devices on Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2.

Winsage

November 14, 2024

In a historic first, Microsoft releases Windows 11 24H2 Arm64 ISOs for direct download

Arm64 ISOs for Windows 11 24H2 are now available for direct download from Microsoft's website. Previously, users needed to be Windows Insiders to obtain Windows on Arm ISOs, which were only available in VHDX format for virtual machines. The new ISOs allow installation on physical Arm hardware, similar to x64 versions. Microsoft recommends including device manufacturer drivers for a smooth installation. The release opens opportunities for enthusiasts to explore Windows on Arm across various hardware platforms, including devices like Raspberry Pi.

Winsage

November 6, 2024

What apps do you need on Windows on Arm?

Microsoft has released a new build of Windows 11 for Insiders in the Canary channel, enhancing support for additional CPU extensions for emulated 64-bit x86 applications, which improves the functionality of Windows Arm PCs. Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the first applications to benefit from this update. Users are encouraged to share their experiences with application compatibility on Arm PCs, highlighting any applications that have caused issues or underperformed during emulation. The author noted that the messaging app Beeper performed poorly on a Windows on Arm PC.

Winsage

October 12, 2024

Arc Browser now supports Windows on ARM

Microsoft announced Windows 11 version 24H2 at its recent event, introducing new AI features for Copilot+ PCs and expanded native application support, including the Arc browser. The Browser Company confirmed that Arc is now available for installation on any ARM devices, allowing users to download it from arc.net. The latest Arc version supports ARM processors on Windows, includes fixes for tab management, and has an open beta for Arc Search on Android 12 or later. Arc is compatible with Windows 10 and 11, and optimizations for ARM devices are expected to improve performance on both new and older models, including the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 9 5G.

Winsage

October 12, 2024

Arc Browser gets Windows on ARM support

Arc Browser is now fully compatible with Windows ARM, allowing users to download and install it directly from the official website. This native support is expected to enhance performance and optimize resource utilization on ARM devices. Arc has also resolved a crash issue related to tab management and introduced Arc Search, which is available on Android devices running Android 12 or later. The demand for software compatible with Windows on ARM is increasing, although the selection of native applications remains limited. Arc Browser, built on the Chromium framework, emphasizes user privacy and offers features like tracking prevention and incognito mode, aiming to provide a fast and modern browsing experience.