A collaboration between Microsoft and Qualcomm will allow Qualcomm's ARM-based chips to run Windows 10 and native Windows apps. At the recent WinHec 2016, Microsoft also demonstrated a re-compiled version of Windows 10 for ARM, together with several native X86 Windows apps running in emulation mode on the platform, which worked seamlessly.
"To deliver on customers' growing need to create on the go, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 is coming to ARM architecture through a partnership with Qualcomm, Microsoft said. "For the first time, customers will be able to experience the Windows they know with the apps, peripherals and enterprise capabilities they require, on a truly mobile, power-efficient, always-connected cellular PC." Qualcomm and Microsoft both believe that the timing couldn't be more perfect, as they've teamed up to allow Windows 10 on mobile devices powered by next-gen Snapdragon processors.
Windows 10 On Qualcomm: Windows And Arm Details
To recall, Microsoft tried to get developers create new applications compatible with both the x86 architectures and ARM using its Universal Windows Platform. However, Windows RT and Windows Phone Mobile, the two operating systems that were supposed to make ARM appealing, failed to make a mark amongst consumers.
This time, however, Microsoft is positive that the team up will allow hardware partners to build a selection of Snapdragon-powered Windows 10 PCs that run universal Windows apps and x86 Win32. The company singled out Adobe Photoshop, as well as its Window games and Office suite.
Windows 10 On Qualcomm: Qualcomm Is The First To Emulate Win32 Programs
Qualcomm's press release states that the Qualcomm Snapdragon is expected to support mobility to cloud computing on Windows 10. However, despite high-end ARM chips now being able to offer excellent computing experience when running native platforms, we are yet to see if the same will work out for the x86 emulation. In the end, it will depend on how Microsoft implements it. The first PCs running Windows 10 powered by Snapdragon chips are slated to release as early as next year, 2017.