Microsoft Advances Windows on ARM: Focus on Musicians
In recent developments, Microsoft has intensified its efforts to promote Windows on ARM (WoA), primarily leveraging the enhanced capabilities of AI-powered features like Copilot. This push is not just about general efficiency and performance; it targets specific user groups, including musicians who are looking to enhance their music creation and live performance experiences with ARM-based devices.
Enhancements in MIDI Services and Software Collaborations
Microsoft is actively addressing existing bugs within Windows MIDI Services on WoA, with plans to integrate these fixes into forthcoming production versions of the operating system. Collaborations with key partners in the music production sphere are also ongoing, resulting in significant developments. Notably, Ableton Live is set to launch a native Arm64 version next year, while popular tools like Bitwig Studio and REAPER are already available for users. For a comprehensive list of involved software vendors, you can explore Microsoft’s detailed blog post here.
Low-Latency Audio Driver Development
In another exciting initiative, Microsoft is partnering with Qualcomm and Yamaha to create a built-in low-latency USB Audio Class 2 and ASIO driver tailored for WoA hardware. This driver aims to feature plug-and-play functionality, ensuring compatibility with any device that meets USB Audio Class 2 standards. Currently in the validation phase, a public preview is anticipated for release next year. Developers can access the project under a permissive MIT license on GitHub, allowing them to customize or enhance Microsoft’s driver capabilities as desired.
Promising Future for Audio Performance
Although Windows on ARM already includes a USB Audio Class 2 driver, its limitations include high latency and inadequate support for various audio endpoints. The new driver under development addresses these shortcomings and plans to integrate with the ASIO protocol for improved performance. Microsoft’s open-source approach is expected to accelerate the development of essential features that may currently be lacking.
Looking Ahead: Public Preview and Compatibility
The new low-latency audio driver is set to enter public preview in 2026 via the Windows Canary Channel. However, users may need to separately install an ASIO control panel applet available on GitHub. Microsoft acknowledges the vast diversity of the ecosystem and anticipates that this public preview will remain active for an extended period, emphasizing the driver’s compatibility with both WoA and Intel architectures.
Related Articles:
Microsoft Acknowledges Backlash and Commitment to Improve Windows
1:41
Microsoft Addresses Backlash from Windows 11 AI OS Power Users: ‘We Care Deeply About You’
23:36
Windows 11 Copilot Advertisement Accidentally Reveals AI Struggling with Basic Text Size Adjustment
21:35
Leave a Reply