Wants to install in S mode on Windows 11 Pro

[noid2594]

I recently purchased a Microsoft Surface Pro X with Windows 11 Pro. When I try to install the desktop app I get an error saying my PC is not compatible and wants me to run it in S mode. How can I get the desktop app installed?

[Mark]

Hi @noid2594 

I'm afraid you cant. Windows on Surface's dont allow installs like a 'normal' computer. 

Surface Pro's run and operate more like a tablet than a PC

[Rich]

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@Mark wrote:

I'm afraid you cant. Windows on Surface's dont allow installs like a 'normal' computer.

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@noid2594 

Mark is correct. The specific issue is that the Microsoft Surface computers run on an ARM processor, and ARM processors will not run the typical applications that you would use on a computer with an Intel or AMD processor (x86 architecture). The only Dropbox app available for ARM processors is Dropbox for S Mode.

[noid2594]

I have a Surface Pro 7+ with Windows 10 Pro that the desktop app works fine. When did things change?

[Rich · Accepted solution]

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@noid2594 wrote:

I have a Surface Pro 7+ with Windows 10 Pro that the desktop app works fine. When did things change?

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Whenever Microsoft decided to change processors. Not all Surface computers use ARM processors, though many of the newer ones do. The 8 comes with an Intel processor, the 9 comes with either an Intel or ARM-based processor, and the X is only available with an ARM-based processor.

Your Surface Pro 7 uses an Intel processor which can run desktop applications. The Surface Pro X uses a Microsoft SQ1 or SQ2 processor, which is a custom ARM-based processor that cannot run the Dropbox desktop application.

ARM-based processors are what you typically find in cell phones and tablets. They use much less power and generate less heat, so they're a good choice for mobile devices like the Surface Pro X, though there are compatibility issues to watch out for (as you're finding out).

[noid2594]

Thank you. That makes more sense