With the May 2020 update, Microsoft has decided not to release the 32-bit version of Windows 10. Here's what's changing for users
We're just over a week away from the start of the release of the May 2020 major update of Windows 10. The major updates are the major updates, the ones that Microsoft releases twice a year (usually in spring and fall) and that bring with them many new features. And so it will happen with the May Update 2020: in addition to new features, in fact, the Redmond company is ready to introduce a big change: for all new devices will be released only the 64-bit version.
What does that mean? So far, Microsoft has always released two versions for Windows 10: a 32-bit version for older computers with less than 4GB of RAM inside, and a 64-bit version for PCs with at least 8GB of RAM. The two versions are identical, both in terms of functionality and user interface, the only difference being the PC's ability to handle multiple open programs at once, thanks to the presence of more RAM.
Windows 10, goodbye to the 32-bit version: what changes for users
The May 2020 Windows 10 update is not yet available to users, but Microsoft has already released it to manufacturers so they can install it on new computers coming out. Among the notes of the update is a pretty clear warning: starting with Windows 10 version 2004 (codenamed the May 2020 update), all new computers will have to use the 64-bit operating system. The 32-bit version, still present on many PCs, will no longer be mounted, at least on new PCs.
This decision should not throw those who have 32-bit Windows 10 into despair: in addition to the fact that they can upgrade their PC to the 64-bit version for free, Microsoft has assured that it will continue to support it, releasing both updates with new features and security patches.
Microsoft's decision follows the one already made by Apple, which since macOS Catalina no longer releases the update for 32-bit PCs.
How to find out which version of Windows 10 is present on your PC
To find out if your computer has a 32- or 64-bit version of Windows 10 just go to Settings, press System and in the new page that will open select "System Information" from the left column. Among the various items there will also be "System type" with the operating system version next to it: 32-bit or 64-bit. In case you have 32-bit Windows 10, check the amount of RAM installed: if it exceeds 4G, you can also upgrade to the 64-bit version.