Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix Now×
Skip to content
Redmond desk3 min

How to Fix Apps or Peripherals That Don’t Work on Windows on Arm

Separate app emulation problems from driver support, and follow the right Windows 11 Arm troubleshooting steps for apps, printers, and peripherals.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If an app will not open on a Windows 11 Arm PC, check for a current version or Windows on Arm support from its publisher. If the app opens but a printer or other device does not work, check driver support separately: app emulation does not make an incompatible driver work. For printers, Microsoft recommends trying Windows’ built-in Add device flow and Windows Update before relying on the manufacturer’s installer.

First, confirm that your PC runs Windows on Arm

Open Settings > System > About and look at System type. Microsoft identifies an Arm-based PC by the wording “ARM based processor.” If that wording is absent, the problem may be an ordinary Windows compatibility or setup issue rather than an Arm-specific one. See Microsoft’s Windows Arm-based PCs FAQ.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Work out whether the app or the driver is failing

If the app itself will not launch

Windows 11 on Arm can emulate many x86 and x64 applications, but not every app is compatible. Look in the Microsoft Store or on the publisher’s website for an update, a native Arm64 edition, or specific Windows on Arm support information. Apps that depend on unsupported drivers or other system-level components may not work fully even if the app is otherwise emulated.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If the app opens but its device or feature does not work

Treat the device’s driver as a separate compatibility question. Find the exact make and model, then check with the manufacturer for Windows built-in support or an Arm64 driver. Emulation can run an app; it does not convert an x86 or x64 driver into an Arm64 driver. Microsoft explains these distinctions in its Windows Arm-based PCs FAQ.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Vixtan 14" Triple Laptop Screen Extender, 3.0 lbs Lightweight FHD IPS Portable Monitor for Laptop, USB-C Plug & Play Multi Screen Attachment for 13-17.3" laptops with Windows/Mac/Chrome
  • 【Ultra-thin & Ultra-light】This Triple laptop screen extender features a lightweight body—just 0.3 inches thin and 3.0 lbs, lighter than a standard coffee bottle. Compact and travel-ready, it’s the ideal laptop screen extender for remote work, business trips, students, and digital nomads who need extra screen space without added bulk.
  • 【Triple-screen efficiency】Transform your setup into a powerful triple-screen workstation. This Triple laptop monitor extender supports extended, mirrored, and portrait display modes, letting you multitask across apps, dashboards, or creative tools without constant window switching. Perfect for traders, developers, designers, and remote workers seeking maximum productivity on the go.
  • 【Crystal-clear FHD display】Enjoy sharp, vibrant visuals on the 14-inch IPS panel with 1920×1080 full HD resolution, 300-nit brightness, and 100% sRGB color accuracy. Anti-glare coating and eye-care technology reduce eye strain during long sessions, while the 178° wide viewing angle ensures clear visibility from any position—ideal for creators, gamers, and outdoor use.
  • 【Upgraded stable & adjustable stand】The reinforced plastic stand offers multi-level height adjustment and smooth 180° horizontal rotation, fitting laptops from 13" to 17.3". Engineered for zero wobble, it delivers reliable stability for presentations, collaborative work, or ergonomic desk setups at home, in cafes, or on the road. The laptop extender features reinforced springs, non-slip pads, and a rear stand to securely hold laptops ranging from 13 to 17.3 inches.
  • 【Plug and play without driver】No software or drivers needed! This portable dual monitor for laptop includes all essential cables (USB-C ×2, USB-C to USB-A, HDMI) for instant connectivity. Compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Android, Linux, and gaming consoles. ⚠️ If you experience screen flickering or low brightness, connect a 5V/3A (or higher) power adapter directly to the monitor’s dedicated power port.

Try these fixes in order

  1. Update the app. Install available updates from the Microsoft Store or the app publisher, then try again. Microsoft’s guide to making older apps compatible with Windows recommends checking for updates first.
  2. Check for an Arm-specific release or support note. Search the publisher’s support pages for the app name and “Windows on Arm” or “Arm64.” Follow the publisher’s instructions if they differ from general Windows steps.
  3. For an older app with no update, try the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter. This is a general Windows troubleshooting step, not an Arm driver fix. It may help with some older app behavior, but it cannot supply a missing or unsupported driver. Microsoft’s compatibility guidance describes this option.
  4. For a printer whose manufacturer installer fails, add it through Windows Settings. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > Add device. Use a different route only if the printer maker provides specific Windows on Arm instructions. Microsoft documents this workaround in its printer-driver installation guide.
  5. Check Windows Update for printer drivers. Microsoft recommends Windows Update as the way to get printer driver updates. If Windows detects the printer but some functions are unavailable, check the manufacturer’s support page for the exact model and any fuller driver or Arm-specific setup guidance.
  6. Ask the responsible vendor if the problem remains. Contact the app publisher for an app or service, and the hardware maker for a peripheral or its driver. Include the Windows version, the exact app or device model, what works, and the error message.

What to expect from printer support

Windows’ modern print platform is described by Microsoft as architecture-independent, but some older printer drivers do not work on Arm. A printer appearing in Windows does not necessarily mean every manufacturer-specific feature is available. For model-specific setup and driver guidance, see Microsoft’s overview of the modern print platform and the printer maker’s support page.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

When a workaround will not be enough

Compatibility settings, updates, or reinstalling an app may address some software problems, but they do not create a missing Arm64 driver. If the publisher or device maker confirms that the app, service, or driver is unsupported on Windows on Arm, the practical options are to use a supported alternative or wait for the vendor to provide an update. A generic adapter or third-party driver utility is not a dependable fix for an architecture incompatibility.

Quick Recap

Rank #3
Sale
MOUNT PRO Laptop Arm Desk Mount for Max 22lbs 17" Laptop & Max 32" Monitor
  • 2-in-1 Laptop Monitor Mount: The Laptop Mount fits laptop and notebook up to 17", and monitor up to 32" with VESA 75x75mm and 100x100mm. You can easily switch it between a laptop arm and a monitor mount by choosing whether or not to install the laptop tray. As this desk mount supports device weighing from 4.4 to 22 lbs. When the weight meets this requirement, you can adjust the tension of the gas spring arm to secure it in place. If you have any problems while adjusting it, we are here to help.
  • Ergonomic Laptop Arm Mount: With its 14.5" pole, the laptop holder stand offers a wide range of height adjustments, making it a valuable addition to your standing or sitting desk setup. By lifting your laptop off the desk, the laptop tray mount is a handy accessory to help you customize your deskop setup. It can be used on its own or pair with your organised monitor to create a dual-screen setup. It is perfect for working, gaming, creating, helping relieve discomfort from fixed postures.
  • Full Motion Adjustment - The laptop desk mount gives you complete viewing flexibility with its swivel, tilt, and rotation adjustments. It is versatile for +70° to -45° tilting, 180° swiveling and 360° rotating. The premium gas spring arm can be extended forward up to 20.9” and elevated to a max height of 23.6". This adjustable laptop stand can be adjusted in many ways, so you can put your laptop in the perfect position for you. This can make you more productive and comfortable.
  • Removable Laptop Tray: The ventilated tray is designed with two side clamps to prevent your laptop from slipping and to provide reliable stability. Both clamps can be adjusted vertically to avoid blocking the ports on your laptop's sides, and horizontally to accommodate wider devices. Thanks to its adjustable design, this tray can hold most laptops, MacBooks and notebooks. Additionally, the vent tray has multiple slots for heat dissipation to keep your device cool during extended use.
  • Say Goodbye to Messy desk: With clear instructions and all necessary mounting hardware, you can easily install the laptop desk arm yourself. Depending on your desk, you can choose between a C-clamp (fits desk thicknesses of 0.39“~2.76") or grommet mount (fits desk thicknesses of 0.39“~1.97", a hole diameter of 0.39“~2.36"). As well as freeing up desktop space, this laptop riser arm features a built-in cable management system to store cable clutter, creating a organised workspace.
Rank #2
Sale
suptek Laptop Notebook Desk Mount Stand, Adjustable Single Monitor Laptop Arm Mount with Ventilated Tray,up to 17 inch,Holds up to 22 lbs
  • Suptek Monitor Laptop Mount Stand, 2 in 1 Function Dual Monitor Arms Desk Mount
  • Cool Design: Venting holes on laptop tray absorb cooling air from laptop fan. Tray measure 14 x 11 inch (L x W)
  • Cable management: Integrated cable management design keeps your power and cables clean.
  • Easy Installation: All hardware and instructions are provided for easy assembly.This stand provides dual mounting options for either your compatible laptop or a monitor up to 32"
  • Package Includes: 1 x suptek Laptop Tray Desk Mount (Black), 1 x Mounting Hardware Kit, 1 x User Manual.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.