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NordVPN — one of the first VPN providers out of the gate with its Black Friday discount — has confirmed that it's rebuilt its VPN app for Windows 11 laptops and desktop PCs powered by ARM chipsets. The new application has been coded from the ground up for ARM64 devices, so there's no need to rely on a transition layer when running NordVPN's award-winning service on the new crop of Windows 11 PCs.
Yes, if you missed the memo — Microsoft kickstarted the shift away from trusty Intel chipsets to a new breed of silicon based on ARM architecture. The first of these new devices, dubbed Copilot+ PCs, launched earlier this summer with processors from Qualcomm, the same brand behind the all-powerful chipsets found in some of the best-selling smartphones and VR headsets.
There's no need to wait for NordVPN's Black Friday deal — it's already here. The award-winning service has kickstarted its Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale early, so you can secure the mammoth discount today. This year, NordVPN has cut prices by a whopping 73% and bundled 3 months for free too.
These system-on-a-chip offer faster speeds and more battery life and follow in the footsteps of Apple, which started to transition its desktop PCs and laptops away from Intel-branded processors to its own in-house M-series chipsets, also based on ARM architecture, some four years.
Samsung, Microsoft Surface, and Lenovo have all unveiled new laptops with razor-thin designs, record-breaking battery life, and an enhanced focus on AI.
But it's not all upsides — legacy software built for x64 systems, like those released over the last two decades with Intel chipsets under the bonnet, could face compatibility hiccups. Microsoft has added the ability to emulate both x86 and x64 applications inside its Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems, although this can have an impact on performance, since there's an additional step in every process.
NordVPN has built its desktop app for Windows 10 and Windows 11 with x64 systems in mind, and that application remains available.
However, it has now launched a new iteration designed specifically for ARM architecture, catering to lightweight, portable laptops that have released in recent months. This native app offers enhanced performance and security compared to emulated alternatives, the team at NordVPN says.
Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, Marijus Briedis explained to GB News: "The app used in its native implementation follows the logic and instruction set of that particular processor’s architecture. The app speaks the ‘language’ of the processor, and they can operate smoothly together. Our decision to develop an ARM-native NordVPN application has been based on a number of advantages against ARM emulation. This includes quicker response to prompts, seamless execution of all commands, and stronger application security."
By following the same instruction set as the ARM architecture, the app can communicate directly with the processor, resulting in smoother operation and enhanced performance. This approach should ensure subscribers experience optimal VPN functionality on any ARM-based Windows devices. Many of NordVPN's rival haven't yet gone through the slog of rebuilding their apps, meaning that if you really want the best performance on your new Windows 11 machine, it might be worth switching to one of NordVPN's best VPN deals.
If you've recently upgraded to one of the first Qualcomm Snapdragon-fuelled laptops, it might be worth deleting the existing NordVPN app on your operating system and install the new ARM-native version of the app.
The rebuilt ARM version of the NordVPN app is available to download free of charge to all subscribers now
NORDVPN PRESS OFFICE
The NordVPN app for Windows ARM comes equipped with a number of crucial features, like traffic encryption and IP address switching. Unfortunately, it's currently missing Threat Protection Pro — the optional anti-malware tool bundled with some NordVPN subscriptions, that protects your machine from malicious downloads, dangerous websites, phishing scams, and more.
Although, the developers are working to deliver it soon. NordVPN boasts a global network of over 6,400 servers across 111 countries, providing users with extensive options for secure browsing.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
If you're looking to secure a subscription to NordVPN, there's never been a better time as the popular provider has launched its Black Friday savings early. Weeks before the sales event is due to start, Black Friday falls on November 29 this year, the award-winning VPN service has slashed prices by a staggering 73% and is throwing in 3 months for free.
Act fast and lock in this deal before November 29 to enjoy 27 months of top-notch online security for just £2.29 per month— down from the usual £8.79. Over a year, you'll save up to £78 compared to the standard monthly rate.
This discount extends across NordVPN's selection of subscription plans, including the popular Plus plan, which bundles the NordPass password manager and anti-malware software to shield all devices from malicious software.
It's worth noting that if you're only interested in the password manager, NordPass is running its own Black Friday discount at the moment. For a limited time, NordPass is offering 56% off on Premium plans — knocking the monthly cost down to just 99p. Yes, really.
