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Microsoft has another go at ARM-based mobile computers; chip maker promises all-day battery life.
ASUS, HP and Lenovo will develop Windows 10 PCs powered by Qualcomm processors, the chip maker announced on Wednesday.
The OEMs will incorporate Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 Mobile PC Platform – which includes its X16 gigabit LTE modem – into thin, fanless PCs that boast all-day battery life.
"With compatibility for the Windows 10 ecosystem, the Snapdragon Mobile PC Platform will enable Windows 10 hardware makers to develop next-generation modern device form factors and deliver unparalleled, anytime, anywhere creation experiences with up to gigabit class LTE connectivity," declared Cristiano Amon, EVP of Qualcomm Technologies.
This is Microsoft’s latest attempt at offering Windows PCs running on ARM-based processors.
Its first range of Surface tablets included an ARM-based version; however, it required a specific version of Windows – RT – which meant it could only run applications designed specifically to work on the ARM chip. The performance of native Windows applications also had to be restricted so the hardware could cope better.
The combination of a hobbled operating system and a dearth of compatible applications meant Windows RT was an abject failure.
Microsoft has learnt its lesson though, and this time around, ARM-based devices will support the same version of Windows 10 that powers desktop PCs.
"We are thrilled that OEMs are sharing our vision to bring the Windows 10 experience to the ARM ecosystem, powered by Qualcomm Technologies," said Matt Barlow, corporate vice president, Windows marketing, Microsoft. "This collaboration offers consumers something new and that they have been craving – the best of a mobile computing experience with the best of Windows 10, all in one thin, light, connected device."
