Google Drive is now available on Snapdragon-based Windows PCs

Engadget - Mar 24th, 2025
Open on Engadget

Google has launched a native version of its Drive app for Arm-powered PCs, specifically designed for machines featuring Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets. Announced in a blog post, this update marks the end of a beta phase that started last year. The new app is compatible with Windows 11 devices utilizing Microsoft WebView2, and it allows users to access their Drive accounts directly through Windows File Explorer. Notably, the latest Microsoft Surface laptops are among the first to benefit from this feature. The rollout began today and will be available to all Google Workspace customers, Workspace Individual Subscribers, and users with personal Google accounts within 15 days.

This development signifies a strategic move by Google to enhance the functionality and ease of use of its Drive app on Arm-based PCs. By providing a native application, Google addresses performance issues and user needs for seamless file access on these devices. The initiative is expected to improve user experience significantly, especially for those who rely on Microsoft's latest hardware. The broader implications could include increased adoption of Arm-powered PCs in the workplace, given their improved compatibility with essential productivity tools like Google Drive.

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RATING

7.6
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and accurate report on the availability of a native Google Drive app for Arm-powered PCs. It effectively communicates the key update and its implications, though it could benefit from more direct source attribution and additional context to enhance transparency and engagement. While the story is timely and relevant to tech enthusiasts, its broader public interest and impact are limited. Overall, the article is a reliable source of information for those interested in tech developments, particularly in the context of Arm-powered systems.

RATING DETAILS

9
Accuracy

The news story is highly accurate, with most claims being verifiable and supported by external sources. The article states that a native version of Google Drive is now available for Arm-powered PCs, specifically those with Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips, which is confirmed by multiple sources. The claim that the app is generally available for Windows on Snapdragon X chipsets is also corroborated. The story correctly mentions the beta test background and the integration with Windows File Explorer, both of which align with the available information. The only minor area needing verification is the specific mention of Microsoft Surface laptops, which, while logical, is not explicitly detailed in all sources.

7
Balance

The article maintains a balanced perspective by focusing on the technical update and its implications for users of Arm-powered PCs. However, it could have provided more context on the competitive landscape, such as how this update positions Google Drive against other cloud storage solutions on Arm devices. The article does not show overt favoritism, but it lacks discussion on potential drawbacks or limitations of the update, which would provide a more rounded view.

8
Clarity

The article is clear and concise, effectively communicating the key update about Google Drive's availability on Arm-powered PCs. The language is straightforward, and the structure is logical, making it easy for readers to follow the developments. However, the article could benefit from additional background information on the significance of this update for the broader tech ecosystem to enhance understanding.

8
Source quality

The story appears to rely on credible sources, including an official blog post from Google, which lends authority to the claims made. However, the article does not cite these sources directly within the text, which slightly diminishes the transparency of the source quality. Including direct references or links to the original announcements or related reports would enhance the reliability and trustworthiness of the information presented.

6
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of direct source attribution and methodology explanation. While it reports on Google's announcement, it does not provide links to the original blog post or specify where the information was obtained. This absence of direct citations makes it difficult for readers to verify the information independently. Additionally, there is no discussion of potential conflicts of interest or biases that might impact the reporting.

Sources

  1. https://www.techradar.com/pro/google-drive-is-finally-coming-to-windows-on-arm
  2. https://www.howtogeek.com/google-drive-is-finally-stable-on-arm-windows-11/
  3. https://www.googlecloudcommunity.com/gc/Workspace-Q-A/Google-Drive-Desktop-for-Arm-Snapdragon/m-p/766891
  4. https://www.engadget.com/2017-05-31-qualcomm-snapdragon-windows-always-connected-pc.html
  5. https://www.neowin.net/news/google-drive-for-windows-on-arm-is-finally-publicly-available/