Microsoft is advancing its Windows on Arm initiative with the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27744, which introduces an updated Prism emulator that bridges compatibility gaps for Arm PCs. Historically, one of the primary limitations of Windows on Arm devices has been their struggle to run x86-based applications and games smoothly. However, the updated Prism emulator changes the game, bringing crucial support for AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C CPU extensions—enabling high-performance apps and popular gaming titles to run on Arm-powered PCs.
With this build, Windows 11 on Arm PCs equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs will be able to handle powerful applications like Adobe Premiere Pro 2025 and AAA gaming titles such as Starfield and Helldivers 2, bridging the divide between Arm and x86 ecosystems and positioning Arm devices as viable options for both productivity and entertainment.
Gamepad Keyboard and Expanded Functionality for Gaming Handhelds
Windows 11 is also introducing a new on-screen gamepad keyboard, aimed at enhancing the experience for gamers and users on touchscreen devices. This feature allows easy navigation and typing directly from the gamepad interface, which will be particularly beneficial for gaming handhelds and touchscreen devices running Windows 11.
In addition to these headline features, Build 27744 introduces practical updates such as the ability to detach hard disks directly from the Settings app and various quality-of-life improvements in Task Manager, showcasing Microsoft’s commitment to refining user experience across the platform.
Detailed Changelog: Fixes and Improvements in Build 27744
This build also comes with a host of bug fixes and performance enhancements. Here’s a rundown of the key improvements:
General
- NVIDIA GPU Compatibility: Resolved an issue affecting Insiders with older NVIDIA GPUs, including the GTX 970 and Quadro K620, where displays would freeze or GPUs would show errors in Device Manager.
Input
- Emoji and Clipboard History: Fixed issues preventing the Emoji Panel and Clipboard History from opening on certain surfaces, such as within Registry Editor, and improved clipboard history reliability.
Windows Sandbox
- Performance Fixes: Addressed a performance issue in Windows Sandbox that had been impacting some Insiders.
Graphics
- Dynamic Refresh Rate: Resolved an issue where the dynamic refresh rate could become locked at 60Hz upon the first boot, ensuring smoother performance.
Other Notable Fixes
- Remote Desktop Stability: Fixed a bug causing Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) to crash in prior builds.
- File Rotation for JPGs: Corrected an issue preventing rotation info for JPGs from being accessed via APIs like PowerShell.
- Mica Effects for Desktop Backgrounds: Fixed mica rendering issues for desktops set to slideshow backgrounds.
- Scanner Detection: Resolved a bug causing certain apps to fail to detect connected scanners.
With these fixes, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27744 represents a significant step forward, not only expanding the capabilities of Windows on Arm but also enhancing overall performance and reliability across all devices. As Microsoft continues to polish the Windows 11 experience, users can look forward to a platform that meets the needs of a broad and evolving user base, from productivity-focused professionals to avid gamers.
