ARM-based Windows 8 devices to have restricted desktop experience?
Although I've repeatedly told you about my excitement for Windows 8, I have been worried about one thing dealing with the operating system's dealings with ARM processors: there was a possibility that the devices with an ARM processor inside wouldn't be able to access the traditional Windows desktop.
That rumor was somewhat squashed today. While ARM devices will be able to run the Windows desktop, Microsoft will restrict the apps that will run on ARM to ones with a trusted certificate that the company itself will sign and hand out. This move is an attempt by Microsoft to keep battery life up, but I don't think it's necessarily the step the company should be taking for battery optimization.
However, if this rumor is true, it will make me feel a bit better about the future of desktop operating systems. For me to fully utilize and and enjoy a mobile device, I need all the productivity apps I can get. My Mac has all of my office suites and editing software I need for various tasks, but that's not something I can say about my iPhone or my Dell Streak 7. I can imagine that Microsoft will have an easier time convincing more developers to write for the Metro side of Windows 8, anyway, but I still hope I can use the traditional desktop for more demanding applications.
I will probably purchase a Windows 8 tablet; the only thing I've got to decide is Intel or ARM. It all depends on if this turns out to be true.
[The Verge]
