It may have taken longer than Microsoft liked, but Microsoft's 64-bit edition of Windows 7 is finally becoming more popular instead of 32-bit.
The company announced that 46% of all PCs that use Windows 7 are running the 64-bit version of the OS. Just 11% of Windows Vista users and less than 1% of Windows XP users installed the 64-bit version of the OS.
A significant advantage of using a 64-bit version of Windows 7 instead of a 32-bit version is the support for more memory. The 32-bit OS can only support up to 4GB of RAM. Microsoft believes a higher demand for PCs and notebooks with more powerful hardware are the cause of the rise in usage, causing OEMs to switch up to loading 64 bit versions by default.
Furthermore, NPD Group research reports reveal 77 percent of U.S. PCs sold in April had 64-bit Windows 7 pre-installed on the product.
"As I mentioned previously, there are more compatible hardware and software for PCs today thanks to the amazing work from our partners (ISVs and IHVs) making their products compatible with 64-bit," said Microsoft's Brandon LeBlanc in a recent blog post. "Through the Windows Logo Program, hardware partners are required to develop 64-bit drivers for their devices and software partners are required to have their applications compatible with 64-bit Windows 7."
Both software and hardware makers are promoting the benefits of 64-bit computing, and there has been a gradual industry-wide shift from 32-bit. However, many video games and software are better suited for 32-bit computers more so than the newer 64-bit technology. Even so, all CPUs sold today can run 64-bit Operating Systems, including 64-bit software.
It seemed like only a matter of time before Microsoft made this type of announcement related to Windows 7 -- and I hope the trend continues. I was an earlier adopter of 64-bit, but watched as it suffered numerous problems at first. I thought it was great to have 64-bit computing power, but the initial launch was marred by a lack of compatible software. Just a few years later, it's finally more common to find better 64-bit support from software companies, hardware manufacturers, and content makers.
