Microsoft is ending support for legacy ARM processors in Windows 11, requiring more modern chips for the next update.
Windows 11 ARM
New processor requirements
Microsoft is introducing more stringent requirements for ARM processors to work with Windows 11. Starting with version 24H2, the operating system will only support chips with ARM v8.1 cores and later. This means that older processors such as the Snapdragon 835 will not be compatible with the update.
Reasons for the changes
Although Windows 11 could technically be installed on computers with Snapdragon 835, Such devices were not officially supported. Microsoft claims that the new requirements are due to security and system stability considerations. The company rejects accusations that the restrictions artificially force users to buy new equipment.
Implications for users
Owners of older ARM computers that do not meet the new requirements will not will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2 and later. This will particularly affect enthusiasts using older Lumia smartphones. However, more modern devices, such as the Surface Duo with a Snapdragon newer than 850, will continue to receive updates.
Glossary
- Microsoft - American multinational company, software developer
- Windows 11 - operating system for personal computers from Microsoft
- ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) - processor architecture developed by the British company ARM Holdings
- Qualcomm - American company, developer of processors and modems for mobile devices
- Snapdragon - a line of ARM processors from Qualcomm for smartphones and tablets
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Answers to questions
Which ARM processors does Windows 11 support?
Why is Microsoft limiting support for older processors?
How will the requirements for ARM processors change in the future?
Will the changes affect older Windows smartphones and tablets?
Are the hardware requirements valid? Are the software necessary or is this a marketing gimmick?
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Discussion of the topic – Windows 11 24H2: Goodbye old ARM and x86 processors!
Microsoft is tightening system requirements for Windows 11 24H2. Users with older ARM and x86 processors may be left out.
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MichaelR
Interestingly, Microsoft has decided to narrow Windows 11 support for older ARM processors. Although it was technically possible to install this operating system even on the Snapdragon 835, it seems they want to push out the old hardware. 🤔
SarahB
Not surprising, since manufacturers are trying to get people to buy new devices. But I feel sorry for the enthusiasts who managed to run Windows 11 even on Lumia phones! 😅 Apparently, we’ll have to say goodbye to these experiments.
JanK
And I heard that Microsoft refers to security reasons. Allegedly, older processors simply do not provide the necessary level of protection for new versions of Windows. I don't know if this is true or just an excuse. 🤷♂️
GrumpyOldMan
A pointless waste of money and resources! Why chase new versions if the old ones work great? These "innovations" cause more problems than they are worth. Leave me alone with your Snapdragon and Windows 11! 😠
AnnaS
I wouldn't be so categorical. Developers are trying to improve performance, security and add new features. Of course, this means that some older equipment will become unusable over time. But this is the price of progress, we have to keep up with the times. 💻💡
PiotrN
Yeah, you can't argue with progress. But I’m more concerned about the fate of the Surface Duo, which will still be able to work with Windows 11. I wonder how these book-type smartphones will perform with the new operating system? 🤔📱
MarinaK
Perhaps companies simply want to simplify support and focus on more modern solutions. After all, maintaining outdated models requires considerable resources. This way you can optimize the development process. 💻⚡
FrancescoR
In any case, it is good that Microsoft warns in advance about such changes. This will give time for those still using older ARM processors to prepare. Although, of course, this will be a disappointment for enthusiasts. 😅🖥️