8'

Breaking: Asus Zenfone 2 runs Windows 7 thanks to an XDA developer

Marco LancasterJuly 9, 2015

Today some mind-blowing news emerged from XDA, reputed site known for customizing and modding the Android platform with thousands of developers who are always trying to break the limits of the mobile handsets. Today’s news involves the known Asus Zenfone 2, aka the world’s first 4GB RAM phone. A websitedeveloper called ‘ycavan’posted avideo of the phone running Windows7, followed bythe procedure that he performed to run it.

One of the biggest attractions ofAndroidhas always beenitsopen-sourcecharacteristicsthat enable the more savvyusersto customize it in their own ways. The ability of the Zenfone 2 to run Windows system also can be attributed to the fact that Intel SoC on the Zenfone 2 which is fairly compatible with Windows. With a custom kernel and some modifications it runs quite smoothly, something that would be difficult for a conventional ARM SoC.

Join GizChina on Telegram

As you can see in the video the Zenfone 2 runs the software easily and quite smooth, maybe more so than we would ever imagine from a hack. The process is of flashing the OS is fairly complex and not meant for everyone as it involves first unlocking the bootloader, then a specific kernel compiled for the OS, partitioning the SD card, and then some terminal commands… and then more.

The developer also states that other Windows distributions such as the newest Windows 10 can be installed with the same procedure and should work equally well. The option is quite interesting no matter how you love Android, you might have imagined how it would be to have a proper desktop OS running on your smartphone. And now we can finally see this as a possibility!

What do you think about this home-hack, are we nearing the age of cross-compatibility where OSes nearly don’t matter?

[ XDA ]

Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.

About the author

Marco Lancaster
Marco has been the HARDWARE & OS EXPERT at Gizchina for over four years, bringing extensive knowledge and a deep passion for technology to the team. His fascination with innovation keeps him constantly exploring the latest trends and advancements in the tech world. Beyond his expertise in hardware, Marco delves into the field of software development, broadening his skills and staying ahead in the ever-evolving industry.
Marco’s proficiency spans across all types of hardware, making him a go-to authority for in-depth insights and reliable information. He has a particular enthusiasm for the Chinese tech landscape, especially smart devices, which he follows with keen interest. As a self-proclaimed tech addict, Marco lives and breathes technology, dedicating himself to understanding and sharing the latest developments with Gizchina’s audience.

Marco is not only an expert in hardware and software but also a passionate gamer. He enjoys playing games across a wide range of platforms, from nostalgic retro consoles to cutting-edge modern systems. His love for gaming complements his enthusiasm for technology, as he eagerly tests the latest gadgets, and hardware to stay on top of emerging trends and innovations.
As a Continuous Student of computer science, and full stack developer, Marco has a great knowledge in this wonderful world of technology and internet.

Michael Ogbonnaya
July 9, 2015
Yea its very impressive, but the whole process is way out of my league. Phew!!! I couldnt even bring myself to read 1/10 through the whole process after seeing how complicated it is. You have to be an Android developer to even attempt this.
- MaxPower
  July 10, 2015
  - July 10, 2015
    lol … yes its nice but im really not gonna try that procedure on my phone (assuming I have the Zenfone 2 already).
Joe mont
July 9, 2015
I’d prefer some desktop Linux variant, where you could actually create an interface for mobile use.
- Dis
  July 9, 2015

can’t believe it. This is impressive.
Michael Ogbonnaya
July 9, 2015
Yea its very impressive, but the whole process is way out of my league. Phew!!! I couldnt even bring myself to read 1/10 through the whole process after seeing how complicated it is. You have to be an Android developer to even attempt this.
- MaxPower
  July 10, 2015
  i saw the video and i thought:
  “Michael must be drooling right now”
  🙂
- Michael Ogbonnaya
  July 10, 2015
  lol … yes its nice but im really not gonna try that procedure on my phone (assuming I have the Zenfone 2 already).

Joe mont
July 9, 2015
I’d prefer some desktop Linux variant, where you could actually create an interface for mobile use.
- Dis
  July 10, 2015
July 9, 2015
Windows 7 on a 5,5″ device?
Someone needs to learn about porn and fetishes, if he is gonna be wasting his time on useless things, he better do it while having fun.
I was trilled to buy a 8″ Windows 8.1 tablet, but I borrowed one and I almost throw it out of the window after like 20mins, I don’t see how could anyone want Windows 7/8 on a device with a screen smaller than 15″.

G'n'T
July 10, 2015
Great effort all the same…
Aeonia
July 10, 2015
Glad to see this made its way to GizChina..
Guest
July 10, 2015
Windows 7 on a 5,5″ device?
Someone needs to learn about porn and fetishes, if he is gonna be wasting his time on useless things, he better do it while having fun.
I was trilled to buy a 8″ Windows 8.1 tablet, but I borrowed one and I almost throw it out of the window after like 20mins, I don’t see how could anyone want Windows 7/8 on a device with a screen smaller than 15″.

Devender Rao
July 10, 2015
Complicated but interesting kudos to u
G'n'T
July 10, 2015
Great effort all the same…
Adam Irvine
July 10, 2015
Glad to see this made its way to GizChina..
European Citizen
July 10, 2015
Looks interesting, but I imagine it’s hard to operate on such small screen
Devender Rao
July 10, 2015
Complicated but interesting kudos to u
Adam Irvine
July 10, 2015
That is effing awesome!

Stephen Chen
July 10, 2015
wow amazed… I have been waiting for the day when smartphones can run desktop OSes I initially thought BB might get this done considering they have QNX that;s capable of running emulators
European Citizen
July 10, 2015
Looks interesting, but I imagine it’s hard to operate on such small screen
Stephen Chen
July 10, 2015
wow amazed… I have been waiting for the day when smartphones can run desktop OSes I initially thought BB might get this done considering they have QNX that;s capable of running emulators

Partha Dutta
July 11, 2015
Its great to have both the O.S. particularly Android and Windows. We would be happy to own a Phone/Tablet with 4G and a Full day’s continuous use which will take dictations also from Dragon Dictation. This will solve the problem of People who want their dictations in the Office as well as Home/Chamber. Plus we will be able to see TV, Listen to FM, listen songs, watch videos/movies, play games, all-in-one without desktop. 128 GB storage is already coming up in microchips. So the day is not far. I can see its arrival within two years and within $400 Dollars.

Guest
July 11, 2015
Its great to have both the O.S. particularly Android and Windows. We would be happy to own a Phone/Tablet with 4G and a Full day’s continuous use which will take dictations also from Dragon Dictation. This will solve the problem of People who want their dictations in the Office as well as Home/Chamber. Plus we will be able to see TV, Listen to FM, listen songs, watch videos/movies, play games, all-in-one without desktop. 128 GB storage is already coming up in microchips. So the day is not far. I can see its arrival within two years and within $400 Dollars.