The innovative spirit of tech enthusiasts knows no bounds, especially when it comes to pushing the limits of operating systems. Recently, some users are experimenting with running Windows 11 on Arm natively on specific Android smartphones, with the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro being the pioneering device. While the mere thought of Windows on a smartphone sounds riveting, the reality is a bittersweet cocktail of excitement and frustration.
Users have reported that while older games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive run acceptably—albeit at 30 FPS—the more modern titles based on Source 2 graphics have proven to be too much for this setup. Virtualization features, such as applications leveraging Windows Subsystem for Linux, appear to be out of reach, limiting the usability of this experimental OS.
The increasing interest in cross-platform capabilities mirrors broader industry trends wherein companies seek seamless transitions between mobile and desktop environments. Imagine actual compatibility that allows users to switch between devices without losing their workflow! However, as these experiments show, we are still in the early days of this transition, and much work remains to be done in optimizing performance and addressing thermal management challenges.
As tech enthusiasts continue to explore these frontiers, it's essential to remember that sometimes, the most exciting innovations come with their share of headaches. For those brave enough to tread where few have gone before, the adventure of Windows on Arm is just beginning. But stay cool, and maybe keep a water bottle handy—it might just come in handy for that overheating smartphone!
Source: Tom's Hardware Windows 11 for Arm can run natively on specific Android smartphones — the test device heats up very fast, and battery life substantially decreases
A Bold Experiment
On December 9, 2024, a Redditor known as anh0l showcased the daring attempt of running Windows 11 on Arm on his Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro. This device has been tweaked to maintain a split partition for its original Android operating system while also supporting a functioning UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). A notable achievement in its own right, but the experience has clearly not yet been optimized for mobile use.Temperature Check: Too Hot to Handle
The findings reveal that while Windows 11 operates smoothly for basic tasks—including some limited animation in Blender 3.6 LTS and web browsing—the smartphone's performance comes at a cost. The test device reportedly overheats, with temperatures soaring to a staggering ~48 degrees Celsius (around 118 degrees Fahrenheit). This isn't just uncomfortable; it poses serious risks to the hardware and battery life, leading anh0l to humorously caution against taking the device near an airport—presumably out of fear that it might ignite an ‘incident.’Battery Life: A Critical Shortcomings
In addition to the heat, users can expect a significant decrease in battery performance. Running resource-intensive tasks on a mobile device designed primarily for Android leads to an experience reminiscent of trying to microwave a whole turkey—an effort that promises vast inefficiency. The prolonged stress on the battery can also lead to accelerated wear and tear, leaving users questioning the sustainability of such a setup.Performance: A Mixed Bag
Despite the concerns around overheating and battery life, the performance of Windows 11 on Arm has certain redeeming qualities, especially for those who might want to perform light computing tasks. The Snapdragon 860 processor, found in the Poco X3 Pro, shows compatibility due to a shared architecture with Windows Arm laptops. However, not all Snapdragon brick-and-mortar phones can handle this feat; only Snapdragon 800 Series and newer models appear to be on friendly terms with this experimental arrangement.Users have reported that while older games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive run acceptably—albeit at 30 FPS—the more modern titles based on Source 2 graphics have proven to be too much for this setup. Virtualization features, such as applications leveraging Windows Subsystem for Linux, appear to be out of reach, limiting the usability of this experimental OS.
Broader Implications: Windows and Mobile Convergence
This experiment raises intriguing questions about the future of operating systems in our increasingly portable world. With ongoing developments in Arm architecture and the rise of Qualcomm drivers, the potential for a more integrated experience between Windows and Android devices becomes tantalizingly feasible. However, heavy caveats exist in terms of hardware limitations, battery implications, and stability.The increasing interest in cross-platform capabilities mirrors broader industry trends wherein companies seek seamless transitions between mobile and desktop environments. Imagine actual compatibility that allows users to switch between devices without losing their workflow! However, as these experiments show, we are still in the early days of this transition, and much work remains to be done in optimizing performance and addressing thermal management challenges.
Conclusion: An Exciting Yet Cautionary Tale
In sum, the experiment of running Windows 11 on Arm on the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro provides a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities for future computing. With some tweaking, this combination may become more stable, but for now, users should proceed with caution. Ultimately, the intersection of desktop and mobile experiences should deliver robust functionality without compromising user safety or device longevity.As tech enthusiasts continue to explore these frontiers, it's essential to remember that sometimes, the most exciting innovations come with their share of headaches. For those brave enough to tread where few have gone before, the adventure of Windows on Arm is just beginning. But stay cool, and maybe keep a water bottle handy—it might just come in handy for that overheating smartphone!
Source: Tom's Hardware Windows 11 for Arm can run natively on specific Android smartphones — the test device heats up very fast, and battery life substantially decreases
