Windows 8 ARM tablet apps is Metro-only

Microsoft is considering dropping support for regular software on Windows 8 on ARM tablets, according to the latest leaks, leaving owners of the slates with only Metro-style apps to play with. Contrary to original suggestions from Microsoft, that developers although having to rewrite their x86 software to suit ARM chipsets would be able to release regular, desktop versions of their apps for Windows 8 tablets, that decision now looks like it will be reversed, ZDNet reports. It is suggested the turnaround could be part of Microsoft strategy to better challenge Apple iPad with consumer-centric devices.

Microsoft has said that Windows 8 ARM tablet owners would have a choice when it came to software. The new OS brings the Metro UI to PCs from Windows Phone, with a more finger-friendly, Live Tile based interface for touch use and general multitasking, and the regular desktop underneath if needed. Microsoft may limit ARM Windows 8 tablets only to that Metro UI, and apps that support it.