Windows 10 drops support for Intel Atom processors with the Creators Update

Windows 10 Creators Update cuts support for Atom processors, but devices will continue to security patches.

Windows 10 Creators Update best features

Devices with Intel Atom Clover Trail processors haven’t been able to install the Windows 10 Creators Update since the new version rolled out, and now Microsoft confirms that is no longer supporting these chips with its later update.

Originally, laptops and tablets using Atom processors were available with Windows 8, but they’re also eligible to upgrade to Windows 10 to keep them secure and with the latest features.

However, a report from ZDNet reveals that a number of users are getting a “Windows 10 is no longer supported on this PC. Uninstall this app now because it isn’t compatible with Windows 10” message that prevents them from installing the Creators Update, and, as expected, the company has confirmed that these low-power Intel processors are no longer supported starting with Windows 10 version 1703.

On a statement to The Verge, Microsoft says that “they require additional hardware support to provide the best possible experience when updating to the latest Windows 10 feature update.” Furthermore, “these systems are no longer supported by Intel (End of Interactive Support), and without the necessary driver support, they may be incapable of moving to the Windows 10 Creators Update without a potential performance impact” the company explains.

Affected processors include:

  • Atom Z2760
  • Atom Z2520
  • Atom Z2560
  • Atom Z2580  

While this isn’t good news for device owners using the Atom Clover Trail processors, Microsoft is committing to provide security updates for the Anniversary Update on these devices until January 2023, but unfortunately this means no more new features.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.