Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite with Windows ARM Copilot+ PCs are here: Launched in June 2024, Copilot+ PCs are revolutionizing laptops with Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite ARM-based processors, offering outstanding performance, efficiency, exceptional battery life and running on a specialized version of Windows 11 for ARM. This all sounds exciting but does come with compatibility implications as Windows 11 for ARM may require different drivers and is built on a different hardware platform. Below, we will explain why the difference with Snapdragon Copilot+ PC and Windows 11 ARM is something you need to consider when deploying this new platform. We’ll also show you some way to take out the guesswork and troubleshooting when selecting accessories for these exciting new devices. Compatibility Challenges Introduced with ARM-based CPUs Many users will assume that Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors will function identically to traditional Windows 11 machines. However, the use of ARM processors in these devices introduces significant compatibility challenges. Unlike the x86 architecture used in most CPUs, ARM-based processors require specific drivers. This means that many existing hardware components and software applications may not work as expected on Copilot+ PCs. Ensuring Seamless Compatibility with Snapdragon Copilot+ PCs Since the launch of Snapdragon Copilot+ PCs, StarTech.com has been diligently testing our product range with multiple Snapdragon-powered laptops to guarantee compatibility with these new ARM-based systems. To help ensure successful deployments, we have verified our products to natively and seamlessly work as expected and that necessary drivers automatically install to deliver full functionality when the product is connected to the Snapdragon and the upcoming Intel-AMD Copilot+ PCs. IT Pro Fact: While Thunderbolt 3 is compatible with USB4, it's important to note that certain Thunderbolt docking stations and adapters might behave differently on a Snapdragon X laptop. This is due to driver incompatibility within Windows 11 ARM. Our thorough testing ensures you won't encounter unexpected compatibility challenges. How to Find Guaranteed Compatible Products for Snapdragon Copilot+ PCs The arrival of Copilot+ PCs with their innovative ARM-based Snapdragon processors presents exciting possibilities. However, for IT professionals, compatibility with existing hardware can be a concern. We understand your need for smooth deployment. Say goodbye to compatibility guesswork! We've implemented a website filter specifically designed for Copilot+ PCs. With a few clicks, you can easily identify compatible accessories, including docking stations, video adapters, network adapters, and hubs. This ensures you have the right equipment to maximize the Copilot+ experience from day one. We're actively updating our filter as we verify compatibility with existing product offerings as well as testing new products before launching. We’ve also added a Windows 11 ARM icon to our OS Compatibility section to make identifying compatible products even easier. Visit our website to explore our growing selection of connectivity accessories rigorously tested for seamless performance with Copilot+ PC laptops. Stay tuned for exciting new additions as we continuously expand our compatible products list. The Dawn of Copilot+ PC: Microsoft leads with its Surface models, while major manufacturers like HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Dell have released their own Copilot+ laptops, driven by Qualcomm's innovative Snapdragon X series processors. Equipped with a powerful Neural Processor Unit (NPU), these devices allow users to complete complex AI tasks effortlessly. Previously, only the Snapdragon X series systems met the NPU requirements for a Copilot+ PC however both Intel and AMD have announced brand new chips that will now satisfy those requirements. The new AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra 200V series CPUs will both be featured in the next generation of Copilot+ PCs and will begin to see new AI experiences starting in November through free Windows updates. Compatibility for the new Intel and AMD chips does not change as both these platforms are using X86 architecture and using Windows 11 for X86.