Good news for Snapdragon laptop users: Google Drive for Desktop has finally arrived in beta for Windows 11 devices powered by ARM64 architecture. After years of lagging support for ARM-based Windows PCs, this release is a milestone for both Google and the growing ecosystem of ARM hardware.
The app, built natively for ARM64, brings nearly all the functionality of its x86 counterpart to Qualcomm-powered machines. However, there’s one caveat: the Outlook Meet plugin isn’t supported yet. Google emphasizes that the beta status means users should proceed cautiously, especially with critical data, as some bugs are expected. Feedback is encouraged through the app to help refine the final release.
Windows on ARM devices, like those running Snapdragon processors, have historically struggled with software compatibility. Native apps like this Google Drive version mark a shift toward better support for these efficient, lightweight machines. With competitors such as Adobe and VPN services like NordVPN also optimizing for ARM, the ecosystem is expanding rapidly.
To use the beta, you’ll need:
- A Windows 11 PC (the app doesn’t support earlier versions).
- Microsoft WebView2, which is usually preinstalled but can be downloaded during setup if missing.
The introduction of this app signals broader industry interest in ARM architecture, as more developers begin to prioritize support for these devices. With major updates to the Windows on ARM platform and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors gaining traction, the future of ARM laptops looks bright.
The Google Drive beta is available now for download by Google Workspace users, Workspace Individual subscribers, and personal Google accounts. While it’s not perfect yet, it’s a significant step forward for ARM-powered Windows PCs.
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