Windows RT is only 32-bit, which will limit the memory capability of tablets to just 4GB. Windows 8 tablets with Intel's Atom chip code-named Clover Trail will also be only 32-bit, an Intel spokeswoman said. But Windows 8 tablets with Intel's PC-like Core processors are 64-bit, giving devices expanded memory and storage support. Tablets today are adequately served with 32-bit processors, but with usage of demanding applications such as video growing, storage and memory needs will increase in mobile devices. ARM has taken a step ahead by announcing its ARMv8 64-bit architecture, with chips likely appearing in 2014. Microsoft has not announced its 64-bit plans for Windows RT.

ARM processor options

Windows RT tablets have already been announced with chips from Nvidia and Qualcomm, which license ARM processors. Microsoft's Surface, Asus' Vivo Tab RT and Lenovo's IdeaPad Yoga 11 hybrid will have Nvidia's quad-core Tegra 3 processor, which may appeal to gamers and users looking for fast performance. Samsung's Ativ Tab and Dell's XPS 10 will have Qualcomm's dual-core Snapdragon S4, which is designed to balance performance, battery life and connectivity.

Hardware limits

Windows RT tablets will have only USB 2.0 ports, which are slower than the current USB 3.0 port. However, peripherals such as external storage devices with USB 3.0 ports will be able to connect to RT tablets because of backward compatibility with USB 2.0. The peripherals will work only if compatible with Windows RT. USB 3.0 ports will be available in Windows 8 tablets with Intel's Core processors.