Microsoft unveils the list of Windows on Arm limitations on Windows 11, and Windows 10

The Snapdragon-based Windows Copilot+ PCs were recently released, and while they excel in performance and battery life, they have specific limitations, which Microsoft acknowledges in a new document (spotted by Windows Latest).

The document specifies that certain drivers, games, and apps only work if they’re designed to work for Windows on Arm. This means many such products won’t work on Copilot+ PCs, even if they seem to qualify. Other software, such as apps that customize the Windows experience or third-party anti-virus software, won’t work either.

Drivers for hardware, games and apps will only work if they’re designed for a Windows 11 Arm-based PC. For more info, check with the hardware manufacturer or the organization that developed the driver. Drivers are software programs that communicate with hardware devices—they’re commonly used for antivirus and antimalware software, printing or PDF software, assistive technologies, CD and DVD utilities, and virtualization software.

Microsoft

Plus, functions such as Windows Fan and Scan may not be available because they are incompatible with ARM technology.

Windows Fax and Scan isn’t available. This feature isn’t available on a Windows 11 Arm-based PC.

Microsoft

How can Microsoft deal with the Windows on Arm limitations?

Firstly, it’s worth mentioning that these devices might not be your first choice, especially if you are a serious gamer. Yet you can still handle many games—offering up to 30 frames per second for most situations. This may cause some people to query how it impacts the usual user and whether this is a breaking point for these constraints. However, give Microsoft a few years, the company has already stated that Windows Arm is the future of gaming, and it has taken steps toward it.

Still, Windows 11 24H2 has fewer limitations than Windows 10 on ARM and provides superior compatibility for applications and games. However, there are still obstacles that need to be dealt with. For example, running older games or using apps that rely on particular drivers not created for ARM might present. This could slow down certain users, especially if their preferred game or application is in this group.

Now, you might ask, what about other functionalities, such as antivirus or customization apps? The answer is mixed. Most peripherals and devices are compatible with Windows 11 24H2 on ARM, but there is limited support for some antivirus applications and customization tools.

Yet, it’s not all bad news. These Snapdragon Copilot+ PCs have strong points that make them an appealing option for certain people—particularly those who care more about battery life and overall performance than needing a laptop for gaming or applications. And we should remember that Windows Defender is present to provide security that many users perceive as adequate.

That said, there are still a few rough spots, but the progress shown in Windows 11 on ARM with the Copilot+ PCs indicates an encouraging path for upcoming computing. Whether these restrictions will cause you to avoid them depends on your requirements and usage habits.

If you need a device that can do everything well and balance power with long battery life, these devices could be what you’re looking for. But if you’re searching for a PC to game or utilize particular apps, waiting for AMD and Intel PCs to come up later this year could be good.