Microsoft Reduces Minimum Resolution Requirement To Enable Cheaper, Smaller Windows Devices

In a Windows Certification Newsletter, Microsoft announced that they are reducing the minimum resolution requirement to 1024 x 768 at a depth of 32 bits across all Windows 8 system form factors. Microsoft believes that this change will  enable OEM partners to develop more cheaper and smaller form factor devices. However, this new resolution will disable snap feature in Windows 8 PCs which Microsoft is asking OEMs to inform customers.

The lower resolution would disable snap, a feature that allows two Windows Store apps to be viewed simultaneously side by side. To avoid potential consumer disappointment, OEMs need to disclose the loss of snap.

To achieve certification with a sub-1366 x 768 panel, OEMs must explain how they will provide appropriate, clear, and conspicuous disclaimers that customers can see before they buy their PCs. For example, OEMs may use ads, websites, packaging, and/or point-of-purchase materials. This disclaimer must disclose that the system doesn’t support snap. OEMs can also disclose what’s needed to get snap to work, like connecting an external display that meets the standard minimum display resolution requirement of 1366 x 768. That part is optional, but providing a solution tells people that snap can be used, with some system modifications. Plus, it’s a nice thing to do.

When creating their own disclaimers, OEMs should do something like this:

• The integrated display resolution of this system is below the threshold for snap, a feature that lets people view two Windows Store apps at the same time. App snapping will work if you attach an external display that supports a screen resolution of 1366 x 768 or higher.

You can read about the exact hardware spec requirements here at Microsoft site.

via: ZDNet.com