Skip to main content

For some reason, someone got Windows 7 running on an Asus ZenFone 2

Asus Zenfone 2
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Regardless of which version of the Asus ZenFone 2 you get, it’ll be powered by a quad-core Intel Atom processor. As such, XDA member ycavan decided to take advantage of it by installing Windows 7 on it, reports XDA Developers.

Thanks to the Atom processor that powers the ZenFone 2, Windows 7 actually runs at near-native speeds, ensuring the possibility of installing Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or even Windows 10. Moreover, there were no major bugs during the Windows 7 install, so running the operating system should provide users with a relatively pain-free experience.

As for how to install Windows 7 on the ZenFone 2, however, the process is not for the faint of heart. For starters, you will need to have root access to the ZenFone 2, and will also need to unlock its bootloader in order to install the new kernel. You can then choose to partition the phone’s storage, whether the internal storage or the Micro SD card, and you will then need to run a slew of terminal commands.

Zenfone 2 Qemu-KVM kernel running Windows, rendered with aSpice

When all is said and done, Windows 7 should begin installation on a virtual machine.

Zenfone 2 Qemu-KVM kernel running Windows, rendered with aSpice

There are a few things to keep in mind, the biggest of which simply involves the remarkable ability to install Windows 7 on the ZenFone 2. Because other Android handsets use ARM-based chipsets, such as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors, the same steps will not work for them.

It’s also worth noting that there is no Direct3D compatibility, though that could change in the near future. Finally, battery life will naturally take a hit, because Windows 7 will be running in a virtual machine inside of Android instead of being on its own. In other words, this process will not wipe Android from the ZenFone 2, so do not expect anywhere near stellar battery life.

Regardless, this is an exciting development for enthusiasts looking to go ultra-portable with their Windows operating systems. You can check out the entire thread here if you’re interested in making the jump.

Editors' Recommendations

Williams Pelegrin
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Williams is an avid New York Yankees fan, speaks Spanish, resides in Colorado, and has an affinity for Frosted Flakes. Send…
Visible’s affordable 5G plans just got even cheaper
The Visible logo on a smartphone.

Visible has a new offer that can help you save significant money when switching to its service. Both Visible and Visible+ packages are now available for purchase upfront on an annual basis. These new annual plans are available for new Visible customers starting today, while existing customers will gain access to them this May.

With this new deal, the Visible+ plan costs $395 per year when paid upfront instead of $540 when paid in 12 monthly installments of $45 each. This means you can save $145, which is 26%. That's an incredible savings. When paying upfront for the regular Visible plan, it will cost $275 per year, saving you $25. If you pay for it monthly, the standard Visible plan costs $25 per month (or $300 per year).

Read more
iPhone SE 4: news, rumored price, release date, and more
The Apple iPhone SE (2022) and Apple iPhone SE (2020) together.

While the spotlight always seems to be on Apple’s mainline iPhones, the iPhone SE is a great pick for those who are on a budget. If you want an iPhone that doesn't break the bank, the SE is the way to go.

The original iPhone SE came out in 2016, and then Apple revamped it in 2020 and 2022 by giving it some more modern hardware. The iPhone SE tends to get updated every two or so years rather than annually like the traditional iPhone. This means  that we should see a new iPhone SE 4 this year, but it’s not so cut-and-dried with this particular model.

Read more
Hurry! This Apple Watch just had its price slashed to $189
The app grid view on the Apple Watch SE 2.

For great smartwatch deals, head to Amazon immediately. Today, it has the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) for $60 off bringing it down to just $189 from $249. A fantastic price for an exceptionally well-made smartwatch, this tops our list of the best Apple deals right now. If you’re keen to buy a watch that will motivate you to move more while also looking good, check it out by tapping the button below. Alternatively, read on while we explain all.

Why you should buy the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen)
One of the best smartwatches around, the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is best described as “simple, cheap, and brilliant”. It’s designed to help you exercise more effectively, while keeping connected with your digital life, and also staying safe.

Read more