Our mobile devices typically feature different chipsets compared to those found on computers. However as mobile devices like smartphones become more popular, many are wondering if perhaps ARM-based chipsets could eventually replace more traditional processors? In fact Microsoft has attempted to do that with Windows RT, an ARM version of Windows 8.
Unfortunately that experiment did not prove to be particularly successful, but it seems that Microsoft is looking to try again because according to recent comments made by Qualcomm CEO Steve Mollenkopf during an investor call, we can expect to see ARM-powered Windows 10 laptops later this year.
Mollenkopf was quoted as saying, “Our Snapdragon 835 is expanding into mobile PC designs running Windows 10, which are scheduled to launch in the fourth calendar quarter this year.” Now the main difference is that unlike Windows RT, this new ARM-powered laptops are expected to run the desktop version of Windows 10, meaning that it will finally be able to support desktop-class apps as well, thanks to an emulator that Microsoft will be building into the OS.
Ultimately this should end up providing users with a similar experience that they’re familiar with on more traditional laptops or desktops, but with the added benefit of potentially having better battery life.
Filed in . Read more about Laptops, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Windows and Windows 10.