Microsoft is embarking on a significant update for Windows on Arm, aiming to enhance the compatibility of x64 software and games through advanced emulation capabilities. This initiative is particularly focused on devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors. The update is part of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27744, currently being rolled out to testers in the Canary Channel.
Enhanced Emulation for Broader App Compatibility
This development marks a pivotal moment for users of Qualcomm’s latest chips, as it will enable a wider array of applications that lack native ARM64 versions to function seamlessly. Notably, this includes popular games that utilize AVX2 technology, such as Starfield and Helldivers 2.
With the new update, Microsoft’s emulator will extend its support to 64-bit x86 software, allowing the use of various processor extensions, including AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C. However, it is important to note that 32-bit software will not yet be able to leverage these enhancements, which may result in some applications continuing to face compatibility challenges.
While many widely-used applications, such as Photoshop, Hulu, and Chrome, already boast native ARM64 versions, others still rely on emulation for functionality. Microsoft has indicated that the new emulator is currently enabled in a limited capacity on retail PCs, allowing for the operation of Premiere Pro 25 on Arm, a capability that was previously restricted as Adobe develops a dedicated version.
Correction, November 6th: A previous version of the article incorrectly stated that Blender required emulation; it now has an ARM64 version.
