A new wave of Windows applications is now harnessing the full potential of the Snapdragon X Elite, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Arm-based computing. With the latest updates, it appears that the gap between Arm and x86 architectures on Windows 11 may have finally narrowed, depending on specific use cases.
Upon the launch of Snapdragon laptops in July, a wide array of applications were already compatible right out of the box. Notably, the Microsoft suite operates natively on these devices, leveraging the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to enhance functionality wherever the Copilot+ feature is applicable.
No more translation layer
Historically, many Windows applications relied on “Prism,” a translation layer that bridged the gap between x86 applications and the Arm architecture. This reliance often resulted in performance issues, making the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite less appealing compared to alternatives like Intel’s Lunar Lake or AMD’s latest Ryzen AI chips.
However, the landscape is shifting. Applications such as Blender, Capture One, and Affinity Photo 2 now enjoy full support on Snapdragon devices. The NPU, essential for Copilot+ PCs, has taken a leap forward, enabling the simulation of 3D renders from text commands. Qualcomm claims these simulations will be delivered at “warp speed,” although users can expect render times to range from 10 to 30 seconds, depending on complexity.
Affinity Photo 2 showcases the NPU’s capabilities in a unique way. Having been optimized for Snapdragon as early as May, it now utilizes the NPU for advanced features like Object Selection and Subject Selection. Similarly, Capture One benefits from the NPU by offloading tasks such as cropping and color grading.
More and more use cases covered
In the tech industry, the concept of Personas—representing the various types of users—often shapes product development. With Windows 11, the target audience is broad, encompassing users with varying needs. Fortunately, an Arm-based Windows laptop can effectively meet the basic requirements of most users, offering sufficient performance for simple applications, even when utilizing the Prism translation layer. However, the demand for native support across a wider range of applications remains crucial, as x86 chips have long excelled in this area. The recent additions to the supported application roster seem particularly tailored for media professionals, paving the way for a more robust Arm platform.
Despite these advancements, Qualcomm still faces challenges in positioning itself as a formidable competitor to Intel and AMD. The recent introduction of more affordable laptops equipped with the Snapdragon X Plus could potentially enhance market appeal, possibly outpacing the current X Elite lineup in sales. Regardless, the resurgence of Windows on Arm is establishing itself as a more credible alternative than previous attempts at competing with x86 architecture.
Also read: Qualcomm pulls plug on Windows devkit PC
