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Windows on ARM has had a shaky start and struggled to gain traction, but with the new Microsoft Surface Pro X with the new SQ1 processor co-engineered with Qualcomm, things are starting to look rosier.
It is claimed that x86-64 emulation will be arriving shortly allowing 64-bit programs to be compatible with Windows on Arm, but this could come at a cost.
Qualcomm’s Miguel Nunes claimed back in 2016 that x86-64 software emulation wasn’t going to happen. The reason behind this is that due to the RISC architecture 64-bit computing is far slower than 32-bit computing. With x86-64 emulation, everything the software does is CPU bound with no GPU interaction, this, therefore, puts a great deal of strain on the CPU and causing performance issues.
So with the x86-64 support, you will have a wider range of access to applications but this will come at a cost of reduced performance. This doesn’t mean Windows on Arm laptops will reduce in overall performance, they will continue to favour 32-bit.
32-bit emulation currently uses Windows’ WOW64 which enables 32-bit programs within 64-bit Windows. Microsoft and Qualcomm are working to enable 64-bit compatibility across a wide range of processors going back to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835, therefore extending compatibility from 64-bit exclusive processors such as the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx.
I previously reviewed the HP Envy X2 and had some mixed experiences with it at first with various software issues, but I have continued to use it over the years and all of these issues have been ironed out. It is not something I used every day, but if you want a portable always-connected device they are excellent. I was and still am excited about Windows on Arm, however, I had hoped they would have come further by now with the performance and emulation issues.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
