Microsoft introduces mini PC for Windows software development, with ARM processor

October 27, 2022  10:10

In the early stages of development, Microsoft's new mini-computer received the Project Volterra code, whereas now it has a less sonorous but self-explanatory name: WindowsDevKit 2023. Thus, Windows Dev Kit 2023 is a mini-computer designed for developers of programs and applications for Windows computers based on ARM processors.

The mini-computer also runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 ARM processor, although Windows computers are usually equipped with Intel or AMD processors.

WindowsDevKit2023-2

The dimensions of this mini-computer are really small; they're comparable in size to the Mac Mini (8x6x1.1 inches or 196x152x27.6mm) and weigh just 960 grams.

As for other specifications, the mini-computer has 32 GB of RAM and 512 GB of NVMe memory. There are also two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the side and three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the back, as well as an Ethernet port and a MiniDisplayPort.

This device also has a neural processing unit (NPU) similar to the one found in the 5GSurfacePro 9, which enables developers to solve artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads.

Microsoft has started using the NPU in Windows 11 to support features like VoiceFocus, an impressive background noise removal algorithm, according to Theverge.com.

On the software side, Microsoft is working on launching a full suite of its own Arm apps for developers.

WindowsDevKit2023-3

The VisualStudio 2022 17.4 now runs on Arm with much better performance, and the .NET 7 will include improved Arm performance. Preliminary versions of VisualC++ for Arm and WindowsAppSDK are also available.

"Thanks to Windows 11's powerful emulation technology, developers will be able to run many unchanged x64 and x86 applications and tools in their WindowsDevKit," said Pavan Davuluri, manager of the cost-benefit analysis team at Windows Silicon and Systems Integration.

The WindowsDevKit 2023 is available today for $599 in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, UK, and US. But it is not yet known when the device will appear in our market.


 
 
 
 
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