What is Windows on Arm (WoA)?

Windows on Arm (WoA) is a version of the Windows operating system (OS) from Microsoft, designed to run on Arm-based processors and fine-tuned for the Arm architecture. Increasingly, developers are building a wide range of Arm-native WoA applications that can readily access the efficiencies offered by Arm-based silicon. For instance, AI applications that require high performance and energy efficiency can easily be optimized to run on Arm and meet energy and performance goals.

Which Devices Typically Run Windows on Arm?

Currently, Arm-based laptops, PCs, and tablets can run Windows on Arm. Leading manufacturers including ASUS, HP, and Lenovo, have introduced a range of Arm-based PCs, offering consumers a wide variety of form factors and features together with the familiarity and versatility of Windows and the efficiency and mobility of the Arm architecture. These devices are powered by Arm-based processors and deliver exceptional battery life and connectivity, making them perfect for productivity while on the move.

What are the Advantages of Windows on Arm Over Traditional x86/x64?

WoA offers several advantages as Arm processors are known for energy efficiency, leading to longer battery life on devices. Additionally, with a rich legacy in the smartphone industry, Arm-based devices are typically more compact and lightweight and provide always-on connectivity with cellular networks, ideal for mobile computing. The WoA software development community, including Arm and Microsoft, continues to grow and support rapid and trouble-free native app development, reduce compute costs, and increase customer value. For instance, Office 365, Spotify, Zoom, Slack, Adobe, and others have ported their applications to run on Arm, as Arm-native Windows apps are more power efficient compared to emulated or non-native apps, and AI workloads can run efficiently on device.

How does Software Compatibility Work with Windows on Arm?

The main difference between WoA and standard Windows x86/x64 lies in the instruction set architecture (ISA), which influences software execution and optimization. While x86 processors use a complex ISA (CISC), Arm uses a reduced ISA (RISC) and uses emulation technology to run older applications designed for x86 processors without requiring developers to rewrite their code. Both open-source and Microsoft tools and frameworks are available to help developers port WoA apps, including the Microsoft Windows Developer Kit to port applications natively, Microsoft Visual Studio, GitHub Actions, WinUI, .NetCore, Clang/LLVM 12.0.0, and WinDBG.

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