A new Windows Insider test build aims to address a long-standing challenge for Windows on Arm users: applications that simply fail to run due to CPU requirements. Build 27744, now available in the Windows 11 Canary Channel, includes a significant update to Microsoft’s Prism emulator, introducing support for legacy AVX and AVX2 instructions. This addition means that certain games and creative apps previously blocked by CPU limitations can now run on Windows for Arm, potentially transforming the platform’s compatibility landscape.
Windows on Arm has traditionally faced limitations running x86 apps because the platform relies heavily on the Prism emulator to bridge the gap between x86 and Arm architectures. While Prism enables most x86 apps to operate on Arm-based processors like the Snapdragon X Elite, certain applications—particularly games—still face compatibility issues. This build specifically addresses these issues by enabling a broader range of x64 applications under emulation.
Microsoft has yet to provide a detailed list of affected applications, although Adobe Premiere Pro on Arm is specifically mentioned, expanding support for more creative software. Microsoft clarified that this update will primarily benefit 64-bit applications, as 32-bit apps won’t recognize the enhanced emulation features.
In recent years, Qualcomm has also made strides in optimizing Arm-specific versions of popular apps, partnering with developers of Google Drive and VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. The advancements in Prism show Microsoft’s commitment to strengthening Windows on Arm, giving users more flexibility and reliability when using applications that require advanced instruction sets.
