Windows Vista 64-bit Adoption Growing
The installed base of 64-bit Windows Vista PCs, as a percentage of all Windows Vista systems, has more than tripled in the U.S. in the last three months according to a blog posted by Chris Flores on this blog entry Windows Vista 64-bit Today, stating that another view shows 20% of new Windows Vista PCs in the U.S. connecting to Windows Update in June were 64-bit PCs, up from just 3% in March.
For ISVs, this market growth means a new wave of opportunity, while at the same time the need to ensure your product works on 64-bit editions of Windows Vista. While most software will work unmodified on 64-bit editions of Windows Vista due to WOW64 (Windows 32-bit on Windows 64-bit, an emulation layer that enables 32-bit Windows applications to run seamlessly on 64-bit Windows platforms), you'll want to make sure your product works with WOW64 and provides a positive experience for your customers.
Following are a few resources to help you prepare for what some are calling “The Summer of 64-bit” .
- Check out the video interview with Microsoft team members, Gary Schare and Bruce Burns who talk about the sudden uptake of the latest Windows 64-bit client OS and what it means for ISVs.
- For more information for developers about 64-bit readiness, see Be ready for 64-bit Windows Vista.
- The Windows Vista Developer Center provides you with resources such as Getting Ready for 64-bit Windows to help you ensure your programs for Windows Vista are compatible with 64-bit editions.
- Best Practices for WOW64 - This paper defines best practices for building applications that run on WOW64.
- Get the latest on developing drivers and applications for 64-bit systems.
- Show that your products are compatible by participating in the Microsoft logo program and get listed in the Windows Vista Compatibility Center.
We hope you find these resources helpful.
Best Regards,
Microsoft ISV Team