Vivaldi has recently released a native version of its popular browser for Arm-based PCs, which is great news for those who run Windows 11 on Arm. While this initial version of Vivaldi for Arm silicon is in preview and comes with some caveats, it signals a positive step towards wider availability.
It’s worth noting that early test versions like this one may have some issues, as they have not been thoroughly tested and are not yet part of the automated test system. However, the fact that Vivaldi is working on a version specifically for Windows on Arm is promising.
Vivaldi is highly regarded as one of the best web browsers due to its excellent customization options. It is a browser that appeals to those who enjoy tinkering with and personalizing their browsing experience. Having Vivaldi available on Arm-based PCs means that users can enjoy these customization options on a wider range of devices.
This move by Vivaldi also suggests that Microsoft is actively preparing the ground for Windows on Arm to become a real force in the near future. The hype surrounding the upcoming Snapdragon X Elite chip and its rumored Plus variants further supports this notion. The Snapdragon X Elite chip has the potential to make Windows on Arm a more viable option by offering better performance.
In fact, Qualcomm’s reference laptops running Baldur’s Gate 3 at a stable 30 fps with reasonable graphics settings are already showcasing the capabilities of Windows on Arm. It’s important to note that Baldur’s Gate 3 is not coded for Arm CPUs, yet it still runs smoothly under emulation. This demonstrates the potential for even better performance in native Arm applications.
The release of Vivaldi for Arm is a clear indication that Microsoft is actively encouraging developers to create native Arm clients. Native apps run more efficiently and faster than emulated ones, as they eliminate the processing overhead involved in emulation. By supporting and incentivizing developers, Microsoft is paving the way for a future where native Arm software is the norm.
Considering the timing of Vivaldi’s preview release, it’s reasonable to speculate that the final version might be ready by the time Snapdragon X Elite laptops are launched in June. Additionally, rumors suggest that Microsoft’s Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 may be ARM-only devices, further highlighting the company’s commitment to Windows on Arm.
Furthermore, leaks suggest that Windows 11’s AI Explorer, a significant upcoming feature for AI PCs, might initially be exclusive to Windows on Arm. This showcases Microsoft’s dedication to the Arm spin of its desktop OS.
Overall, these developments indicate that Microsoft is investing heavily in Windows on Arm. We can expect to see more high-profile software getting native Arm ports in the future. This increased support and the growing ecosystem of native applications may finally give Windows on Arm the opportunity to shine. The combination of improved hardware and optimized software has the potential to make Arm-based PCs a compelling choice for users in the coming years.
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