Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27744: New Prism Emulator for ARM Users

Microsoft has just unveiled the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview, specifically build 27744, in the Canary channel. This update heralds some exciting features, most notably an enhancement to the Prism emulator for ARM-based systems. This long-awaited update promises to broaden the horizons for users with ARM devices by allowing them to run a wider array of legacy apps and games, including the much-discussed Adobe Premiere Pro 2025.

What’s New in the Prism Emulator?​

The updated Prism emulator is a game-changer for ARM users. Initially designed to bridge the compatibility gap between x86 applications and ARM hardware, the new emulator version significantly extends its capabilities by adding support for various CPU features that were previously unavailable. Specifically, it now includes critical extensions such as AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C. Although these extensions aren't mandatory for running Windows, they have become so prevalent that many modern applications rely on them.

Why Is This Important?​

Many software applications and games benefit from these CPU extensions for optimized performance. With the latest update, Windows 11 on ARM can now support a greater number of 64-bit x86 applications—essentially opening the door for many users who felt constrained by the limitations of previous ARM devices. Users will now have the ability to run high-profile applications like Adobe Premiere Pro, along with popular gaming titles such as Starfield and Helldivers 2 on their ARM PCs, enhancing both productivity and entertainment options.

New Features and Enhancements​

Besides the significant improvements to the Prism emulator, Microsoft has also introduced a new on-screen gamepad keyboard. This feature allows users to leverage their Xbox controllers to navigate the system and type using a specially designed layout, complete with button accelerators and vertical alignment for better usability.

Bug Fixes and Glitches Addressed​

Along with these new features, Microsoft has also focused on stability and usability. The version addresses multiple bugs, including:

• Dark mode support for the Disconnect and Logoff dialog in Task Manager.
• Fixes for an issue causing older NVIDIA GPUs to display a black screen, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Technical Significance of CPU Extensions​

So why do CPU extensions matter to the end-user? Extensions like AVX (Advanced Vector Extensions) enable processors to perform multiple calculations in a single instruction, vastly improving the performance of applications that rely on complex mathematical computations, such as video editing software. With this update, ARM devices equipped with compatible chipsets can now utilize more advanced functionalities, which were previously a barrier for running certain software.

What Users Can Expect​

Users running Windows 11 on ARM devices can anticipate a more fluid experience with enhanced multitasking and the ability to run a variety of applications that were once limited to x86 architecture. This aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing shift towards improving support for ARM hardware, catering to an audience that values versatility and performance.

Conclusion​

This latest iteration of the Windows 11 Insider Preview not only elevates the platform's capabilities for ARM users but also signals a progressive step forward in Microsoft’s long-term strategy to bolster ARM compatibility. For existing users of ARM PCs and potential adopters, this update represents a significant encouragement to explore previously unsupported software and applications. The enhanced Prism emulator effectively transforms ARM devices into more powerful tools for creative and professional tasks, further bridging the gap in the Windows ecosystem.
Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft continues to refine its Windows 11 experience!

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Source: Gadgets 360 Windows 11 Insider Preview Adds Updated Prism Emulator for Arm PCs to Let Users Run Legacy Apps