14 DAY TRIAL // That Windows 8 was going to run on ARM CPUs has been known for a while, but it looks like only now have reports appeared about just when tablets loaded with it will be formally launched.
The major barrier that ARM faced when approaching the PC market was the fact that its processors were not supported by the Microsoft Windows operating system.
Nevertheless, with tablets proving to be so popular, it was decided that Windows 8 would support the architecture alongside the x86 used by Intel and AMD.
As such, as soon as the OS is completed, one can be sure that a number of ARM tablets will be devised as well.
Now, a certain report has arisen, claiming to have a general idea of just how much longer prospective buyers have to wait before they see anything concrete.
More specifically, Digitimes provided a report that says such products will be delivered before the end of the ongoing year (2011).
One would think this would have IT companies all excited about the possibilities, but it appears they aren't nearly as enthusiastic as one would assume.
For one, ARM won't have enough time to come up with an overly powerful processor by then, so nothing besides slates will really be possible, for a while.
Thus, if there will ever be a showdown between it and Intel/AMD on the PC market, it won't be too soon.
Another thing is that there are still some compatibility issues that have to be resolved before notebook players really let loose with new projects.
All in all, while ARM will have one major obstacle less to worry about in its expansion plans, it isn't in any position to cause any real change in the current stakes that Intel and AMD hold in the processor field. Finally, Google's Android probably won't be immediately threatened by Windows 8 for much the same reasons.