In 2024, Microsoft is preparing for significant developments for Windows 11. They, along with their partners, are set to release the first wave of Windows on ARM PCs. Flagship products are the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 devices, slated for debut at an upcoming special Surface event.
Even though Windows on ARM is not entirely new, Microsoft is very optimistic about its success this time around. According to various reports, Microsoft believes their ARM-powered PCs will outperform Apple’s M3-based MacBook Air, a popular choice among consumers. They plan to demonstrate this through CPU horsepower demos and comparisons.
Microsoft claims that Windows AI PCs with ARM processors can emulate apps faster than Apple’s Rosetta 2 emulation layer, a challenge Windows on ARM has faced for years. Interestingly, consumer versions of the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 may exclusively feature ARM processors, with Intel variants reserved for business use.
These ARM-based PCs will be the first to receive next-gen Windows 11 features, including an AI File Explorer and enhanced audio/video capabilities. Microsoft aims for half of all new Windows computers to get new AI chips by 2026.
It’s worth saying that Qualcomm claims superiority with its new Snapdragon X Elite, potentially making Windows on ARM a gaming platform. Google’s release of a native Chrome version for Windows on ARM further boosts its potential success.
Microsoft’s event on May 20, 2024, promises the unveiling of consumer Surface devices and a plethora of AI features for Windows 11.