A new test version of Windows 11 for ARM devices includes an updated Prism emulator designed to improve x86 application compatibility. This update could significantly enhance gaming on Snapdragon-powered PCs.
The updated emulator, found in Windows 11 Insider Preview build 27744, now supports AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C instructions. This expanded support allows Snapdragon X-based laptops to run more x86 applications, including games like Starfield and Helldivers 2 that utilize AVX2.
Microsoft notes that the update only affects 64-bit applications and is currently available for "limited use" on existing ARM-based PCs. The updated Prism emulator even enables software like Adobe Premiere Pro 25 to run on Snapdragon hardware. A public release date for the updated emulator hasn't been announced yet.