Can you install Windows 8 on a Nexus 9 Android device? (Checking if it works with Android systems)
Can you install Windows 8 on a Nexus 9 Android device? (Checking if it works with Android systems)
Looking to get a tablet, the nexus 9 looks very promising, however I would really like windows rather than android. With a little research it seems it is possible to boot windows on an android device, but would the hardware still perform as well? Would there be driver support for the tegra k1? Would I run into any weird problems? That is pretty much what I am wondering. Any answers would be great, thanks!
Certainly.
Yes, it's not straightforward and hasn't been completed before.
If what you said is accurate, doing that would be highly improbable. Even if you could bypass security measures to run Windows 8 on an N9, it would cause major instability. Running Windows on ARM devices has very limited software support, so sticking with Android might be the safer choice for app availability—MS Office apps for Android are reportedly in development, so you won’t miss anything.
You'll need to operate Windows 8 using emulation since the Nexus 9 Nvidia Tegra K1 processor runs on ARM architecture, whereas Windows was originally built for x86 systems. The only workaround is if you manage to obtain Windows RT, which supports ARM CPUs but delivers a performance far inferior to Android. There are many solid Windows 8.1 platforms available. Unfortunately, these typically rely on Intel graphics, while AMD and Nvidia avoid this segment—something I believe will be corrected with Windows 10. Still, it would be a decent setup. Some models use Atom processors, i3/i5/i7 chips, and if you can afford it, an i7. Look for devices featuring a digitizing pen for smoother interaction with desktop apps. If you're a student intending classroom use, I recommend a device equipped with an N-Trig digitizer pen; otherwise, you'll face significant challenges and higher costs. Personally, I prefer the Surface Pro 2 (student discounts are available on newer models). It’s an excellent all-in-one solution—a capable ultrabook and tablet running Windows 8.1, letting you run any application, including Android emulators if desired. However, it’s not inexpensive. If you require a non-gaming laptop/ultrabook paired with a tablet, this configuration fits the bill.
It doesn't function properly. Windows 8 is designed for x86 systems, while Android works with ARM. You might try WinRT, but it's not ideal. Unless you're using Windows Phone 8...that could be an option, though I wouldn't recommend it.