Private Internet Access VPN Now Offers a Native Windows ARM App
Published on August 7, 2024
- PIA is one of the first providers to offer a native ARM application.
- The app is currently in beta as PIA is actively working on resolving bugs.
- Other VPNs that have joined the bandwagon are Surfshark and Windscribe.
As reported just a couple of days ago, big-name VPNs are developing ARM applications for Windows, and we expect that most of the high-end VPN providers will make the switch soon. That said, Private Internet Access is among the first providers to offer an ARM-native application, now available for download.
Recently introduced Copilot+ PCs are powered by Snapdragon’s X Elite processors, which have a different architecture than Intel or AMD CPUs. As such, these devices require ARM applications to take full advantage of their high-end performance and energy efficiency.
While most non-native software can run through emulation on ARM, this doesn’t apply to VPN apps, which are specialist software that integrates with Windows more deeply. Per PIA’s explanation, this provider’s developers had to work with delays in certificate signing from Microsoft, overcome code framework dependencies, and more.
As reported by Tom’s Guide, PIA’s Head of Product, Himmat Bains, said: “We are excited to bring PIA’s functionality to Microsoft’s next generation of ARM-based machines. We have been working hard to bring all of PIA’s functionality across to this new hardware, and are thrilled that our users can again enjoy the full power of the PIA platform.”
In addition, since Windows’ ARM architecture is still under very active development, PIA has decided to keep the latest application in beta. That said, don’t be surprised if you encounter bugs or glitches, as PIA’s developers work hard to streamline the app’s functionality.
When it comes to other VPNs, your additional options are Surfshark and Windscribe, as both of them offer native ARM applications. We’ve also seen reports that NordVPN and ExpressVPN are working hard on a solution, but haven’t finalized their ARM software just yet.