Google has officially released a native version of its Google Drive desktop application for Windows PCs powered by ARM-based Snapdragon processors.
This development enables users to seamlessly sync and store files on their devices without relying on emulation, thereby enhancing performance and integration.
In November last year, Google introduced a beta version of the Drive desktop app compatible with Windows 11 devices running on Snapdragon chips.
This beta provided functionalities similar to those available on Intel and AMD systems, excluding the Outlook Meet plugin. Following successful testing, the stable release is now generally available.
Key Features
- Native ARM64 Compilation: The application is compiled for ARM64 architecture, ensuring optimized performance on Snapdragon-powered devices.
- File Explorer Integration: Users can access their Google Drive files directly through the Windows File Explorer, facilitating seamless file management.
- Automatic Updates: Beta users will be automatically upgraded to the latest version, ensuring access to the newest features and improvements.
System Requirements
To install the Google Drive desktop application on ARM-based Windows PCs, the following requirements must be met:
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Microsoft WebView2: Typically included with Windows 11; if missing, the installer will prompt installation.
Download and Installation
Users can download the application directly from Google’s official website. The installation process is straightforward, with prompts guiding users through necessary steps, including the installation of Microsoft WebView2 if required.
The release of the native Google Drive app aligns with a broader trend of expanding ARM64 application support on Windows PCs. Notable applications like Google Chrome, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN have also introduced ARM-compatible versions, enhancing the software ecosystem for ARM-powered devices.
Additionally, Microsoft is developing updates to enable more software and games to run on ARM64 using its Prism emulator.
The general availability of the Google Drive desktop application for ARM-based Windows PCs marks a significant milestone in improving software compatibility and performance on Snapdragon-powered devices.
