Google Drive App Now Beta Available for Windows on Arm Devices

Google Drive Beta App Now Available for Windows 11 on Snapdragon

Google has recently released a beta version of its Google Drive desktop app that is compatible with Windows 11 running on Snapdragon chips. This update marks a significant advancement for users of Snapdragon-powered devices, offering the same robust features that are typically available on PCs with Intel and AMD chips.

Features of the Google Drive Beta App

Users can expect the same functionality that is available in the desktop version for traditional x86 processors. However, it’s worth noting that the Outlook Meet plugin is not included in this beta version, as confirmed by a Google employee on the Drive community forum.

How to Download

The beta version can be downloaded directly from Google using a simple link to the .exe file. It is important to note that Windows 11 is required for installation, and users will also need to install Microsoft WebView2, which the installer will prompt for during the setup process.

Implications for Snapdragon-Powered PCs

This new native app brings Snapdragon-powered PCs closer to achieving software parity with their x86 counterparts. Previously, many applications on these devices relied heavily on Microsoft’s Prism emulation. With this significant development, more applications, including popular ones like Chrome (which has supported Arm PCs since January), and other native versions like Blender and Start11, are making their way to improve the overall user experience.

Future Developments

As technology continues to advance, the push for native applications on Arm architecture is becoming increasingly relevant. This latest move by Google may encourage other software developers to release native iterations of their apps, decreasing dependence on emulation.

Conclusion

The release of Google Drive’s beta app is a positive step for users operating on Snapdragon chips, providing them with enhanced capabilities and smoother integrations. As more developers create native applications for this platform, we can anticipate improved performance across various software categories, making the user experience more fluid and efficient.

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Call to Action

If you're using a Snapdragon-powered PC, download the beta version of Google Drive today and experience enhanced functionality. Share your thoughts about the new app in the comments!