- Microsoft intends to remove 32-bit versions of Windows 10 at some point, in a phase out.
- Starting with Windows 10 2004, OEMs will only receive 64-bit versions of the operating system.
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Microsoft intends to remove 32-bit versions of Windows 10 at some point in a phase out. Starting with Windows 10 2004, OEMs will get only 64-bit versions of the operating system.
64-bit architecture is the future of CPU systems
Microsoft published minimum hardware requirements that OEMs in relation to the business must meet. The company announced that it will stop releasing 32-bit versions of Windows 10 to device manufacturers, starting with version 2004.
“Starting with Windows 10, version 2004, all new Windows 10 systems will be required to use 64-bit builds, and Microsoft will no longer release 32-bit builds for the OEM distribution.”
Microsoft’s decision is in line with the growing demand and preference for high-performance CPU systems. That is why more and more devices are appearing with 64-bit processor architectures.
The main reason behind this trend is that 32-bit processors handle only a small amount of RAM. Its 64-bit alternatives are capable of using much more system memory.
Unfortunately, Windows 10 32-bit cannot take full advantage of modern 64-bit chips. So it makes sense that Microsoft will eventually focus on building OS versions with the 64-bit processor architecture in mind.
You can still use your 32-bit Windows 10, for now
In the meantime, you don’t have to worry that your PC is running on the 32-bit version of Windows 10. The change only affects newly manufactured devices that have not yet received any operating systems from Microsoft.
So if your PC came with the 32-bit operating system pre-installed, it will continue to receive support from Microsoft. That includes regular security updates and fixes from the company.
It is still preparing for that time when OEMs will no longer make 32-bit chips.
With Windows 10 32-bit also phasing out, other application and software developers will have little choice but to focus on building for the CPU architecture of the future.