Create OpenCV applications on Windows on Arm
Introduction
OpenCV and Compilers for Windows on Arm
Setup
Build OpenCV Applications with Clang
Build OpenCV Applications with MSVC
Next Steps

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About this Learning Path

Skill level:  Introductory
Reading time:  1 hr 30 min
Last updated:  12 Aug 2026
Skill level:
  Introductory
Reading time:
  1 hr 30 min
Last updated:
  12 Aug 2026
Author:Koki Mitsunami, Arm
Arm IP:Cortex-A
Tags: Migration to Arm Windows Visual Studio Clang OpenCV CPP
Author:
  • Koki Mitsunami, Arm
Arm IP:
Cortex-A
Tags:
Migration to Arm Windows Visual Studio Clang OpenCV CPP

Who is this for?

This is an advanced topic for software developers who want to build and develop applications on Windows on Arm devices using OpenCV.

What will you learn?

Upon completion of this Learning Path, you will be able to:

  • Build the OpenCV library for Windows on Arm devices.
  • Develop applications using OpenCV.

Prerequisites

Before starting, you will need the following:

Summary

AI-assisted

This summary was drafted with an approved AI-assisted workflow and reviewed by Arm contributors before publication. Human technical review remains part of the process so the final page reflects engineering rigor, accuracy, and Arm editorial standards.

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You’ll build OpenCV from source on Windows on Arm and create a minimal C++ application. First, you’ll clone the OpenCV repository, check out the validated 4.10.0 tag, and configure CMake with either MSVC or Clang. Then, you’ll compile OpenCV and a test program that links against its generated libraries to validate your toolchain and environment.

Frequently asked questions

AI-assisted

These FAQs were drafted with an approved AI-assisted workflow and reviewed by Arm contributors before publication. Human technical review remains part of the process so the final page reflects engineering rigor, accuracy, and Arm editorial standards.

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How do I prepare the OpenCV DLLs before running the test application?
Add the directory containing the OpenCV DLLs to your PATH, or place the DLLs beside the executable. This lets the test application find the required libraries at runtime.
Which OpenCV version should I check out for this path?
Use tag 4.10.0. You might be able to use a later version, but if you run into issues, switch back to 4.10.0.
Do I need a specific CMake version, and where should I run the commands?
Use CMake 3.28.1 and run the commands from Windows PowerShell using the CMake command-line interface.
How do I know my build worked, and where are the outputs?
A successful run shows CMake configuration and compilation completing without errors. The build produces OpenCV libraries and a test application in the build directory that you created. Building the test program against OpenCV confirms the environment is set up correctly.
If I follow the MSVC path, do I need Visual Studio installed?
Yes. Use Visual Studio 2022 or later for the MSVC flow. The instructions were tested with Visual Studio 2022. If you choose Clang, follow the Clang section and its tool setup.
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