Microsoft states that x64 emulation is only available on Windows 11 on ARM PCs
You’ll have to upgrade your Windows on ARM PC to use x64 emulation.
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What you need to know
People with theSurface Pro X,Galaxy Book Go, and other Windows on ARM devices will have to upgrade to Windows 11 to utilize x64 emulation. Microsoft discussed the emulation of x64 apps today alongside the announcement of theWindows 10 November 2021 UpdateandWindows 10 shifting to only one major update per year.
Microsoft explained that x64 emulation for Windows is only generally available in Windows 11. It added that people that want to experience x64 emulation will need to upgrade to Windows 11 on ARM. Microsoft’s phrasing suggests that x64 emulation will not roll out to Windows 10 on ARM PCs at any point in the future.
Microsoft tested x64 emulation on Windows 10 on ARM for around one year, but the feature will not ship to the older OS.
Windows 10 on ARM will receive support and security updates until October 14, 2025. After that date, it will fall out of support.
While many big-name apps, including Microsoft Teams, can natively run on Windows on ARM hardware, there are some programs that require emulation. Many video and photo editors are x64 apps. Several games are also x64, though even with emulation, devices like the Surface Pro X won’t compete with thebest gaming laptops.
Our executive editor goes into depth regarding app compatibility in hisSurface Pro X review.
The ability to run x64 apps may be more important for devices that runQualcomm’s upcoming ARM processorsbuilt by the Nuvia team. These processors could rival Apple’s M-Series chips, which would be a big win for Windows 11 on ARM PCs.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
