Traditionally, Microsoft has worked with chip manufacturers like Intel and AMD to leverage the x86 chips and their power. Whether in the affordable, entry-level segment or the performance/flagship tier, hundreds of Intel- or AMD-based machines run the Windows operating system.
However, with the advent of system-on-chips like Apple’s M family of processors, companies have begun to acknowledge the advantages of using Arm processors instead of the x86 options. Even though it’s still a long way for Arm processors to make their place in the market, companies like Qualcomm are pushing the boundaries for what Arm-based processors can do, especially with the Windows operating system.
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Expect To See A Lot Of Arm-Based Devices Later This Year
According to a report by WinFuture, Microsoft and Qualcomm are working together to increase the number of Arm devices that can run the Windows operating system. The report cites a Qualcomm representative who states that OEM partners are gearing up for another wave of launches later this year. We’ll most likely see a host of Arm-based devices capable of running Windows in August and September 2024.
The Second Wave Of Arm-Based Devices Will Target Business/Corporate Users
Recently, Microsoft unveiled the Surface Pro 11, a compact notebook that features a Snapdragon X SoC. Similarly, the Arm-based devices will also run on the Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus chipsets. However, unlike the first wave of notebooks that targeted individuals, the one coming to shore later this year will target the business/corporate market. This could mean that OEMs will leverage their connections with big firms to push the Arm-based solutions.
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Qualcomm Is Looking Forward To Capitalizing On The Windows 11 24H2 Update
Looking at the timeline more closely, August and September are the months when Microsoft could release the Windows 11 24H2 update, which will bring along quite a lot of new features, including GenAI. Hence, from what it looks like, Qualcomm wants to capitalize on the release of Windows’ latest version, which might allow the chip-maker to market the devices certain new features and abilities.
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Mini-PCs And All-In-One PCs To Feature Arm Processors Too
What’s interesting is that Qualcomm isn’t limiting itself to a particular form factor. The second wave of Arm-based devices won’t just be laptops; they can also include mini-PCs or all-in-one computers with the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs. It is immediately clear that Qualcomm is willing to compete with Apple’s Mac mini, a portable mini-PC that houses the chip, RAM, storage, and other required components in a relatively small box.
Further, such products could be more useful in commercial environments. Moreover, Qualcomm and Microsoft want to reinforce their position in a market witnessing advanced system-on-chip solutions capable of providing advanced performance while retaining decent efficiency, Apple’s M Silicon chips being a classic example. However, how the two brands achieve this will unfold in due course. Stay tuned for more updates on Qualcomm’s Arm-based chips.
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