Microsoft To Roll Out Cellular PC's: Bringing Full Desktop Apps To Windows 10 Smartphone & More Cellular Features Slated In 2017

At the WinHEC event in Shenzhen, Microsoft revealed several innovations including desktop applications that are compatible with Qualcomm ARM processor, new cellular networks, cellular computers, and eSIM technology in 2017. Microsoft is basically saying that it wants desktop applications to fully run on a mobile platform and access computers without the need of a mobile phone.

Microsoft previously tried but failed to offer full Windows OS to its ARM microprocessors. The company is trying yet again, and now it has key improvements such as the new generation ARM chips that are more powerful and are compatible with Win32 applications. During the event, Microsoft revealed its partnership with Qualcomm in developing new and inexpensive personal computers that will replace Intel Atom processors in Windows tablets.

Since conventional Windows application does not normally run on ARM but on x86 chips, Microsoft's previous attempt failed. The company then partnered with Qualcomm in mirroring the x86 program. This improvement is important as PC World reports that the Qualcomm chips Microsoft is aiming at developing are powerful enough to run heavy applications, requiring less battery at a lesser price point.

Another vision Microsoft revealed in the event reported by ZDNet includes power-saving computers, cellular networks, and new eSIM technology. First, they are developing power-efficient computers they call "always-connected cellular PC." But according to the report, there is a downside to this such as compromising the performance on portable systems. Secondly, Microsoft wants to offer users new access to cellular networks from personal computers. Clearly, Microsoft wants to do away with the traditional Ethernet and Wi-Fi restrictions. Last on the list is the eSIM Technology which is a programmable SIM technology that enables users to shift carriers without replacing the physical SIM card.

Microsoft's visions are game changing. The company keeps on delving into technological depths that have never been reached before. The first Microsoft cellular PCs running on Windows 10 will be powered by Snapdragon processors. They are expected to be rolled out in early 2017.