Microsoft turns its back on Windows 10 32-bit smoothly

The next Windows 10 update expected in May is causing a stir among users. Indeed, our colleagues from Neowin have found that the 2004 version will only concern 64-bit systems and no longer 32-bit ones. Clearly, the Redmond company favors the next developments of Windows 10 on recent PCs, with 64-bit chips.

But does that mean the end of support for 32-bit applications? No. While Microsoft is phasing out the 32-bit version of Windows on recent PCs, it is not dropping support for 32-bit software. This distinction is essential because some applications are still available in 32-bit for users using 32-bit versions of Windows. This is the case with programs like Razer’s Synapse, Nvidia’s help service, and even OneDrive, but also business applications.

Support for existing applications and systems provided

Microsoft said the 32-bit Windows 10 phase-out would only affect OEM distribution, “there is no impact to 32-bit systems previously manufactured with earlier versions of Windows 10.” The publisher adds that “it remains committed to providing feature and security updates on these devices, including the continued availability of 32-bit support in non-OEM channels.”

By making this decision, Microsoft is making a smooth shift to stopping Windows 10 updates on 32-bit architectures. It thus follows the movement of other companies like Apple with MacOS Catalina or Linux distributions which have also decided to no longer support 32-bit environments.