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Microsoft and friends need to explain why always-connected PCs make sense
It's been over a year since Microsoft, Qualcomm and Intel unveiled the Always Connected PC (ACPC) ecosystem at WinHEC 2016. At Computex 2017, we learned about Qualcomm's undertaking to power PCs with its mobile processors and Intel pledged to support eSIM in all its coming radios. The first wave of devices trickling out haven't gained much traction with the public, though. Despite some fairly obvious benefits, like a constant connection to gigabit LTE, long-lasting batteries and thin, fanless designs. Plus, Sprint is offering free data this year with each Snapdragon-powered device.
Sprint will give free data to Snapdragon PCs
It's official. Sprint is definitely giving away free unlimited LTE data through 2018 to those who use laptops packing Qualcomm's Snapdragon 835 processor. We first learned of this last month, and the announcement today clarifies which devices qualify. If you own or buy the HP Envy X2, ASUS NovaGo or Lenovo Miix 630, you'll be able to get free unlimited data if you sign up for AutoPay with the carrier. This won't cover devices using the new Snapdragon 850 chipset, although that's not available in an actual computer yet, and we'll possibly hear more later this year.
Sprint offers free LTE data to anyone who buys a Snapdragon PC
The best thing about Qualcomm and Microsoft's "Always Connected PC" platform is the promise of being online anywhere, anytime. But that can also come at a cost -- data isn't free. That is, until now. Sprint is offering free unlimited 4G LTE to anyone who has a Snapdragon-powered PC, namely the ASUS NovaGo, the HP Envy x2 and the Lenovo Miix 630. The free data dries up on Dec. 31, 2018, after which you can cancel your subscription or pay $15 a month ($10 if you enable AutoPay). Note that you'll still have to pay "taxes, fees and surcharges," and be subject to "speed maximums."
Microsoft will bring 64-bit app support to ARM-based PCs in May
One of the biggest limitations of the Windows on Snapdragon platform is its inability to run 64-bit apps. Microsoft has said on multiple occasions that it intends to eventually offer that support, but we've not heard about a firm timeline until now. The company's general manager for Windows Erin Chapple told Engadget today that an SDK for ARM64 apps will be announced at the upcoming Build developer's conference.
ASUS NovaGo review: ‘Always online’ comes with limitations
As the first Snapdragon-powered PC available, the ASUS NovaGo has a lot riding on it. When Qualcomm and Microsoft teamed up to make connected PCs, they promised devices that would remain always on, always online and provide access to the apps you need to work on the go. So far, parts of that puzzle are missing -- like eSIM support from carriers. But that hasn't stopped the first wave of laptops, starting with the $599 NovaGo, from trying to leave their mark. It's meant to deliver the benefits of smartphone-like connectivity and battery life in a laptop, but unfortunately also highlights the limits of an unproven platform.
