Google Chrome Installer Error on Windows: ARM Version Confusion

Google’s Chrome installer mishap has left many Windows users scratching their heads and frustrated by a seemingly inexplicable error message. If you recently downloaded ChromeSetup.exe from Google’s official download page on your Intel- or AMD-powered Windows 10/11 PC and were greeted by “This app can’t run on your PC. To find a version for your PC, check with the software publisher,” you’re not alone. It turns out that Google has inadvertently shipped an ARM-specific installer meant for devices with Snapdragon processors rather than the broadly used x86-64 architecture.

What Happened?​

When users click the “Download Chrome” button on Google’s website, the expected process is to launch the installer and guide you through the installation. Instead, the file—intended for ARM systems—displays the infamous error message immediately upon execution. This isn’t a case of Microsoft imposing compatibility restrictions. In fact, a careful examination of the installer shows internal references to “Montgomery Multiplication for ARMv8,” a staple cryptographic function used predominantly in ARM environments. In plain terms, Google mistakenly bundled a version of Chrome’s installation package that isn’t compatible with the majority of laptops and desktops running on Intel and AMD processors.
Key observations include:

• The installer, ChromeSetup.exe, carries code specifically referencing ARM architecture.
• Users receive a compatibility error because Windows correctly identifies that an ARM binary won’t run on traditional x86-64 systems.
• Microsoft’s operating system isn’t interfering; rather, it’s doing its job by preventing an incompatible file from running.

Technical Breakdown: Why the Error Occurs​

To understand the technical nuance, let’s delve into what happens under the hood. The installer in question contains code tailored for ARMv8 processors—a design choice optimal for mobile and Snapdragon-based systems. However, most Windows PCs, whether running Windows 10 or Windows 11, rely on AMD or Intel processor architectures. When the operating system detects an incompatible binary, it promptly displays the “This app can’t run on your PC” error message.
For those curious about what “Montgomery Multiplication for ARMv8” signifies:

• This routine is a cryptographic algorithm used in several high-security calculations, such as RSA encryption.
• Its presence in the ChromeSetup.exe file indicates that the binary was compiled with ARM-specific optimizations in place, making it inherently unfit for use on non-ARM hardware.

The mismatch means that if you’re operating on a conventional Intel or AMD machine, the installer simply refuses to execute, regardless of whether you’re running a fresh installation of Windows 11 inside a virtual machine or on your daily driver.

Implications for Windows Users​

For many Windows enthusiasts—especially those who have long bypassed Microsoft Edge in favor of Google Chrome—this oversight is both inconvenient and perplexing. Consider the following implications:

• Users expecting a smooth installation process are forced into an error loop, causing frustration and delays.
• The error message (“This app can’t run on your PC”) offers no direct remedy or actionable guidance aside from suggesting that you check with the software publisher.
• For enterprise and individual users who rely on Chrome’s features for work or personal tasks, this misstep can disrupt productivity, particularly when immediate alternatives aren’t apparent.

It’s important to note that this isn’t a deliberate attempt by Google to block out users on non-ARM platforms—this is purely a packaging error. Microsoft’s role is only to ensure system compatibility and security by preventing incompatible binaries from running.

Steps to Overcome the Issue​

While you might be sitting there wondering, “What now? How can I install Chrome?” here are some actionable steps:

1. Verify Your Download Source:
   • Always download Chrome from the official Google Chrome website.
   • Ensure that you’re not accidentally being redirected to a version intended for ARM devices.
2. Try the Offline Installer:
   • Google still offers an offline installer for Chrome which seems to bypass this issue.
   • The offline installer package is often a more robust solution as it doesn’t rely on real-time updates during installation.
3. Alternate Installation Methods:
   • If you’re encountering issues with the default installer, check for other variants on the Chrome download page.
   • In some cases, running the installer as an administrator might yield different behavior, although in this case it is unlikely to resolve the architecture mismatch.
4. Monitor for Updates:
   • As this issue has garnered attention in the tech community, Google is likely to release a corrected version soon.
   • Keep an eye on official channels and community forums (like WindowsForum.com) for updates on a patched installer.
5. Explore Temporary Alternatives:
   • Until an updated installer is available, consider alternatives such as using another browser temporarily or employing the offline installer if available.
   • This ensures that your work isn’t stalled by an unexpected compatibility error.

Broader Context: The Complexities of Software Packaging​

This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in modern software distribution. Developers must compile and package software for a wide range of hardware configurations, and even minor mistakes during this process can lead to large-scale usability issues. While the error might seem like a corridor moment of tech mishap, it underscores several points:

• Rigorous Testing: Even industry giants like Google are not immune to critical packaging oversights. This situation emphasizes the need for extensive testing across all target platforms before a widespread release.
• Continuous Improvement: One of the hallmarks of modern software development is the ability to quickly patch issues. Users can expect that Google will address this soon, and the lesson learned will likely lead to more stringent quality checks in future updates.
• User Vigilance: As always, Windows users should ensure they’re downloading software from trusted sources, verifying version numbers and compatibility details before installation. This is particularly crucial when software is not distributed via managed channels like the Microsoft Store.

What’s Next for Chrome on Windows?​

In the immediate term, users desperate to break away from Microsoft Edge and fully embrace Chrome will need to resort to the offline installer or wait for an updated version of ChromeSetup.exe that targets AMD and Intel systems correctly. With community buzz growing and technical deep dives explaining the ARM references, it’s likely that Google is already working on a fix.
For IT professionals and regular users alike, this event is a cautionary tale. It reminds us that even tools from industry-leading tech giants can encounter hiccups, reinforcing the need for backup installation methods and mindful software management.
The incident also sparks an interesting debate on software packaging and compatibility issues. How many other software packages might be in a similar predicament? Is this a rare occurrence, or has the increasing complexity of multi-architecture support led to more such issues? While these questions linger, what’s clear is that proactive troubleshooting and staying informed through trusted tech channels can make the difference between prolonged frustration and a swift resolution.

Final Thoughts​

Accidental mishaps like this illustrate the intricacies behind modern cross-platform software development. Although this installer bug is a setback for many Windows users who trust that software downloads will work seamlessly, it’s heartening to remember that the solution is likely just around the corner. Until then, turning to offline installers or alternative methods can help keep your browser game strong.
Windows and tech enthusiasts are no strangers to unexpected bugs and missteps, and this incident is a prime example of how even well-intentioned updates can miss the mark. As we await a patch from Google, remember that your community—here at WindowsForum.com—is always buzzing with insights into these issues, providing guidance and workarounds to ensure you remain productive no matter what quirks your system might throw at you.
In this digital age, even tech titans can have off days. But with detailed reporting, user shared experiences, and a robust community of IT experts, there’s always a road out of a compatibility conundrum. So, keep calm, opt for the offline installer if needed, and stay tuned; the next update may just solve the puzzle once and for all.
In summary:
• Google inadvertently shipped an ARM-specific Chrome installer for x86-64 machines.
• The error “This app can’t run on your PC” is due to compatibility checks performed by Windows.
• The issue primarily affects Windows 10 and Windows 11 users on Intel/AMD systems.
• The offline installer is a solid temporary workaround until Google ships a corrected version.
• This mishap underscores the complexities of multi-architecture software distribution and the importance of rigorous testing.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and as always, happy computing!

---

Source: WindowsLatest Google breaks Chrome installer with This app can't run on your PC on Windows 11, Windows 10