In addition, and perhaps the biggest news, is that Microsoft is also adding a new emulation layer to the version of Windows 10 running on ARM, which will enable users to run desktop (Win32/x86) applications, such as Photoshop, iTunes, and Google Chrome. And for those wondering, Microsoft is using its Cobalt emulator technology, which heard recently.

Windows 10 running on ARM demo

The company officially made the announcement at its WinHec hardware event in China. At the event, Microsoft also made a full demo presentation of Windows 10 running on a PC featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chip.

Although, this is a big news, it’s not the first time the company tries to bring its operating system to ARM-based devices. Several years back, Microsoft created Windows RT for its Surface RT tablet, but it didn’t go mainstream due to the lack of traditional desktop applications support and missing features. Currently, there is a variant of Windows 10 that runs on phones using Qualcomm processors, which we know as Windows 10 Mobile, but it doesn’t include support for Win32 applications.

Windows 10 for mobile devices

Windows 10 running on ARM is a totally new take meant for mobile devices, and it’ll not only run Windows Store apps, but Win32 apps as well, and users will have access to the desktop and all the features found on the desktop version of the operating system. However, it’s worth pointing out that this new version won’t be replacing Windows 10 Mobile, which will continue to be developed to run on phones. In addition, the company says that the emulator coming to Windows 10 on ARM hasn’t been designed to run on phones. Microsoft is planning to offer Windows 10 on ARM to PC makers for devices with screen sizes between 6- to 14-inch. The company isn’t sharing specific details on the release date, but we can expect Windows 10 for Qualcomm processors sometime in 2017. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.