[itishappy]

> Currently, graphics drivers are distributed by each OEM via Windows Update. Qualcomm plans to release drivers directly to consumers soon.

https://www.qualcomm.com/drivers

I think that's a really dumb move. It essentially cripples the default experience and non-technical folks will just assume the product sucks.

[wtallis]

Ideally, drivers would be available both through Windows update and directly from the chip designer. Gamers in particular are already accustomed to seeking out driver updates manually, especially to get timely fixes relating to recently-released games.

Thus far, driver updates for Qualcomm GPUs have not only been available only through Windows Update, they've been released on a different timeline for different OEMs: a Samsung Galaxy Book and a Microsoft Surface Laptop containing the same chip can have significantly different "latest" GPU driver versions. So getting updates direct from Qualcomm could be an improvement for users of laptops with OEMs that are slow to publish updates. But if this new driver direct from Qualcomm is really just for Surface devices as the headline implies, it's not that much of a change for the broader ecosystem.

[my123]

Those drivers aren't Surface only but there are catches.

ThinkPad T14s for example can use those just fine but Yoga Slim 7x doesn't have Qualcomm's generic signing key allowed for GPU firmware signing but only Lenovo's.

Samsung devices are the other case that is blocked by this installer. Outside of the Yoga Slim 7x and the Samsung devices, these drivers are generic.

[bigfatkitten]

Technical folks will also assume Qualcomm are clowns and the product sucks.