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Google Drive is now supported on Windows 11 on ARM

Google Drive is now supported on Windows 11 on ARM

  • 25.03.2025 00:00
  • windowsreport.com
  • Keywords: Google Drive, Windows 11 on ARM

Google Drive now supports Windows 11 on ARM devices natively, enhancing performance and integration with File Explorer. The update requires Microsoft WebView2 and is exclusive to Windows 11 ARM devices.

Microsoft ReportsAlphabet ReportsMSFTsentiment_satisfied

Estimated market influence

Google

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Launched native support for Google Drive on Windows 11 on ARM, enhancing performance and integration.

Microsoft

Microsoft

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Provided WebView2 which is required for the operation of the updated Google Drive app.

Context

Analysis and Summary: Google Drive Support for Windows 11 on ARM

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Launch Date: March 25, 2025
  • Supported Devices: Windows 11 on ARM-powered devices (e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon chips)
  • Exclusivity: Available only on Windows 11; no support for Windows 10 on ARM
  • Required Software: Microsoft WebView2 (included in Windows 11, reinstallable if needed)
  • Rollout Plan:
    • Stable version rolling out to all users starting March 24, 2025
    • Beta users will auto-update within 15 days

Market Implications and Business Insights

Enhanced User Experience

  • Seamless Integration: Google Drive now integrates directly with Windows File Explorer, improving file access and management.
  • Performance Boost: Native support eliminates the need for emulation, potentially leading to faster and more efficient operation.

Competitive Landscape

  • Rivalry with Microsoft: This move strengthens Google's position against Microsoft's OneDrive, which is deeply integrated into Windows ecosystems.
  • ARM Ecosystem Focus: Targets ARM-based devices, a growing market segment known for efficiency and performance in laptops and tablets.

Strategic Considerations

  • Market Expansion: Captures users transitioning to Windows 11 on ARM devices, potentially increasing Google Drive's user base.
  • Beta Rollout Strategy: Smooth transition from beta to stable release ensures minimal disruption and gathers user feedback during testing.

Long-Term Effects

  • Potential for Ecosystem Growth: Improved integration may encourage more developers to create native apps for ARM-based Windows systems.
  • User Loyalty: Enhanced experience could foster deeper loyalty among cloud storage users, benefiting Google's long-term revenue streams.

Conclusion

The official launch of Google Drive on Windows 11 ARM represents a strategic move to enhance user experience and compete effectively in the cloud storage market. While it currently excludes Windows 10 users, this integration could set a precedent for future app development on ARM platforms, influencing both competition and consumer behavior in the tech industry.