Microsoft AI PCs' "Gaming" Shortcoming: ARM Chip Compatibility Concerns Users

Microsoft AI PCs' "Gaming" Shortcoming: ARM Chip Compatibility Concerns UsersMicrosoft CEO Satya Nadella recently claimed that Windows PCs powered by the latest artificial intelligence (AI) excel in "all benchmarks." However, these computers utilize Qualcomm ARM-based chips, which have compatibility issues with many mainstream video games, considerably impairing user experience

Microsoft AI PCs' "Gaming" Shortcoming: ARM Chip Compatibility Concerns Users

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently claimed that Windows PCs powered by the latest artificial intelligence (AI) excel in "all benchmarks." However, these computers utilize Qualcomm ARM-based chips, which have compatibility issues with many mainstream video games, considerably impairing user experience.

This spring, Microsoft and its partners launched Copilot+ PCs, integrating AI-powered image and video generation capabilities. These new laptops feature a significant shift in CPU configuration. Traditionally, Intel chips have been the cornerstone of Microsoft Windows PCs, but the first Copilot+ PCs adopted Qualcomm's ARM-based chips.

However, most popular PC games, like "League of Legends" and "Fortnite," were developed for Intel's x86 chip architecture, which has been the standard in the PC realm for decades. To run these games on Qualcomm's ARM architecture systems, a software layer is needed to translate Intel's instruction set into ARM's. Chip experts point out that this conversion method is imperfect, potentially leading to bugs, malfunctions, and even game crashes.

This issue is not isolated. James McQuater, an analyst at research firm Omdia, notes that approximately 1,300 PC games have undergone compatibility testing, with only half running smoothly. Furthermore, many niche games remain untested. Henry Chang, an analyst at Digitimes, emphasizes that gamers are core PC users, accounting for 15% of laptop users and spending billions of dollars annually.

Microsoft acknowledges that some games may not run on Copilot+ PCs, particularly those with demanding image processing requirements. The company states its commitment to providing high-quality gaming experiences, but currently, "gamers pursuing high-performance gaming experiences may need to opt for specialized gaming computers."

Qualcomm echoed a similar sentiment, stating that AI-powered PCs are not yet positioned as gaming platforms. However, the company is collaborating with partners to improve this situation. Both companies assert that numerous games can run on Copilot+ PCs without the need for a translation layer. In June, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon mentioned the fantasy role-playing game "Baldur's Gate 3" at an industry event. However, he dedicated less than two minutes to discussing video games during his hour-long presentation.

Another common concern is that some games' built-in anti-cheat software might be incompatible with ARM architecture chips. For example, "Fortnite" and "League of Legends" can run on ARM chips, but their anti-cheat software may still malfunction. Qualcomm claims to be working with anti-cheat software developers to optimize code and enhance compatibility. Epic Games, the publisher of "Fortnite," also stated it is discussing this issue with Qualcomm.

Analysts note that this problem cannot be resolved through simple software patches due to the fundamental architecture of Qualcomm chips. Industry analysts predict that while video game players might eventually benefit from the AI capabilities of Microsoft's latest computers, it will take time.

Intel has recently released PC chips that support Copilot+ AI features. Computer manufacturers anticipate that these Intel-powered models will become widely available next year. Gamers will then have the option to choose Intel-based PCs, avoiding similar issues.

Larry Xie, a 39-year-old game player from Shanghai, indicated he would wait for Intel's products. He believes that seasoned gamers would not consider ARM-based PCs, as they require powerful GPUs, a domain where ARM lacks an advantage.

Jesse Zmich, a 34-year-old player from Charlottesville, Virginia, is a cybersecurity professional. He declined to purchase devices with ARM architecture, worried about being unable to play some of his favorite games, such as the survival horror game "Dead by Daylight" and the shooter game "Rage 2." Zmich mentioned instances where some of his friends were kicked out of online matches while trying to play games on ARM PCs using alternative software.

Beyond gaming, some users reported compatibility issues when running other types of software on new Windows PCs. For this, Microsoft provides a compatibility testing tool.

In truth, issues related to the performance and compatibility of ARM-based chips have persisted for a long time. In 2012, Microsoft released the Windows RT operating system designed for ARM architecture chips. However, since Windows RT could only run software specifically developed for ARM architecture, it lacked compatibility with the vast collection of Windows software accumulated over decades. This OS ultimately failed to gain widespread adoption, and Microsoft abandoned it years later.

Apple's Mac computers are also based on ARM architecture chips. While they have a devoted fan base among non-gaming users, they have struggled to gain traction among game developers.

Gaming is merely one aspect of the battle for control over the internal ecosystem of Windows PCs. The Qualcomm-ARM camp is facing fierce competition from the seasoned Intel. Henry Chang, an analyst at Digitimes, predicts that Intel's upcoming chips will soon capture a significant share of the global Windows AI PC market, primarily due to their compatibility advantages.

Despite this, Henry Chang states that based on current testing and evaluation, the latest Windows AI PCs equipped with Qualcomm ARM-based chips offer longer battery life and faster processing speeds in many cases. Qualcomm also asserts that its chips deliver exceptional performance, enabling PC manufacturers to create slimmer and lighter products.

In conclusion, while Microsoft's latest AI computers excel in performance, they face compatibility challenges. Gamers should exercise caution, wait for the widespread adoption of Intel chips, or opt for PCs specifically optimized for gaming to ensure the best experience.