What is the difference between the ARM version and the x86 version of Windows 8

The ARM version and the x86 version of Windows 8 experience are different, which is what Microsoft has clearly stated. So, what is the difference between the ARM version and the x86 version of Windows 8? Windows 8 ARM devices will use Texas Instruments, Qualcomm and Nvidia processors, and the mainstream Windows operating system will support ARM architecture chips for the first time. Microsoft Windows president Steven · Steven Sinofsky said that Microsoft will release both ARM and x86 versions of Windows 8, ARM architecture devices will run the desktop version of Office 15. But the two versions of Windows 8 still have the following main differences:

· ARM version of Windows 8 (WOA) does not support Windows 7: Windows 8 can run on older Windows 7 PCs, because the x86 platform is basically Standardization is achieved, while ARM is not. Sinowski said: "ARM is licensed for ARM product design, but has not achieved standardization. ” If users want to run existing x86 software, they need an x86 device.

· WOA does not support virtualization or emulation: The ARM version of Windows 8 will not support any type of virtualization or emulation, and will not be able to port or run existing x86/64 applications. Because supporting different forms of simulation violates Microsoft's product goal of high system reliability and predictability, virtualization or simulation software will consume system resources, including battery life and CPU.

· ARM's uniqueness: Devices created by device vendors and ARM partners are closely matched to specific software, and ARM devices purchased by consumers can be serviced and upgraded in a single way. This is different from standardizing x86 devices. From this point of view, the ARM version of Windows is completely different from the x86 version of Windows.

· tagging to avoid confusion: When consumers buy an ARM version of Windows PC, they will be clearly labeled to avoid confusion with the x86 version of Windows 8. PCs pre-installed with the ARM version of Windows will come pre-installed with all drivers and support software. WOA will not be distributed as a standalone software. Therefore, users do not need to worry about whether WOA supports a particular PC.

· WOA devices will not shut down: Sinowski said that users do not have to turn off the WOA PC. The WOA PC does not have a traditional sleep mode, but always runs in a connected standby state, similar to the current mobile device usage mode.

·Office 15: WOA includes new desktop versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote Office 15 applications that support touch, minimizing power and resource consumption, but also providing complete File compatibility. WOA supports the Windows desktop experience, including File Explorerhe and IE10.