Windows on ARM is getting 64-bit x86 emulation in November

Microsoft announced it's close to rolling out initial support for running x64 Windows app on the ARM-based version of Windows 10. Users in the Windows Insider Program will receive this update in November. At least in theory, the ability to run 64-bit x86 apps on Windows 10 on ARM should make the platform more appealing. At the moment, Windows 10 on ARM can only run native 32-bit and 64-bit ARM code, as well as 32-bit x86 code via emulation.

We are excited about the momentum we are seeing from app partners embracing Windows 10 on ARM, taking advantage of the power and performance benefits of Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. We heard your feedback and are making Microsoft Edge faster while using less battery, and announced that we will soon release a native Microsoft Teams client optimized for Windows 10 on ARM. We will also expand support for running x64 apps, with x64 emulation starting to roll out to the Windows Insider Program in November. Because developers asked, Visual Studio code has also been updated and optimized for Windows 10 on ARM. For organizations, we’re committed to helping them ensure their apps work with Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 Apps on ARM64 devices with App Assure. We are working closely with Acer, HP, Lenovo, Samsung and Surface to bring these Windows 10 on ARM innovations and products to our shared customers.

Microsoft is also prepping faster and more energy-efficient versions of some of its applications for Windows 10 on ARM, this will include the Edge browser, Teams, and Visual Studio.