Microsoft is ramping up its efforts to make Windows-on-ARM a mainstream choice. Following the recent launch of Snapdragon X laptops from various manufacturers, the company is collaborating with MediaTek to develop an alternative chipset.
MediaTek’s Approach: Efficiency and Flexibility
This new chip will leverage standard ARM cores, accelerating development compared to the Qualcomm Snapdragon X which utilizes custom-designed CPU and GPU cores. While details regarding its eligibility for the Copilot+ program (requiring 40 TOPS of on-device AI) are unclear, MediaTek’s design signifies a focus on offering manufacturers more flexibility.
Launch Timeline and Market Context
The MediaTek chip’s arrival in late 2025 is influenced by two factors. Development time plays a role, but more significantly, an exclusivity deal between Microsoft and Qualcomm restricts the introduction of competing chips until then.
Leveraging Expertise and Partnerships
MediaTek’s experience with Chromebook processors (Kompanio line) provides a strong foundation for the Windows design. Furthermore, they are reportedly assisting Nvidia with a separate ARM-based Windows chip project, highlighting the growing ecosystem in this space. News from last year also suggests AMD is developing their own ARM-based Windows chip, potentially utilizing Radeon GPU technology.
This diversification in chipmakers signifies a growing commitment to Windows-on-ARM, offering consumers and manufacturers a wider range of options in the future.