Google has started testing an ARM64 version of the Chrome browser that will significantly improve the performance of Windows devices on ARM architecture. This news comes as a surprise, as Google has not previously shown interest in supporting Windows on ARM architecture. However, the latest build of Canary Chrome includes a native version of the browser for Windows 11 devices on ARM architecture.
Currently, users of Qualcomm Snapdragon processors have to use an emulated version of the Chrome browser, which results in decreased performance. Compared to the native version of Edge for ARM architecture, which is significantly slower and has performance issues, the difference is noticeable.
Google has long supported ARM processors in its Chromebooks, offering an optimized version of Chrome OS for Qualcomm chips. In contrast, Microsoft has been able to deliver its own ARM64 version of Edge, using the Chromium base to create a new browser without Google’s DRM solutions. Other browser providers who also use Chromium still rely on Google’s DRM solutions, so having a native browser choice for Windows on ARM architecture is essentially limited to Edge.
It is worth noting that significant changes are expected in the Windows system and laptops in the coming years. Both Microsoft and Qualcomm are preparing for the next big push of Windows on ARM architecture, thanks to the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors. Qualcomm claims that their latest chips will outperform Apple, Intel, and AMD, and recent reports suggest that both Nvidia and AMD plan to release ARM-based chips as early as 2025. Google’s involvement in this effort could have significant implications for the future of Windows on ARM architecture.
Chrome Browser for Windows on ARM Architecture
The source of the article is from the blog macholevante.com