Intel announced the end of development of x86S, an initiative aimed at simplifying the x86 instruction set by removing support for legacy modes and focusing exclusively on 64-bit mode.
The decision comes after the creation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group, which brings together Intel, AMD, Google and other industry leaders to define the future of this architecture — vital for the consumer and data cCnter markets.
A collaborative approach in the x86 ecosystem
The x86S proposal was presented in May 2023, with the promise of optimizing the x86 architecture, eliminating 32-bit compatibility inheritances.
However, Intel now recognizes that any impactful change to this architecture requires alignment with AMD and other market players to ensure interoperability and maintain decades of software compatibility.
“The future of x86 architecture lies not in a single player, but in the strength of collaboration between industry leaders”
According to a company spokesperson, the creation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group aims at a more distant future for architecture, based on collaboration and standardization.
Let’s face it, it’s an interesting perspective given the competition with the ARM architecture, which has been gaining ground in both mobile devices and servers by leaps and bounds in recent decades.
Internal restructuring and strategic focus
Another factor that may have influenced the abandonment of x86S is the restructuring that Intel is going through. In addition to facing significant workforce cuts, the company is looking for a new CEO and is still dealing with problematic launches in the CPU market.
It is not yet clear whether advances planned for x86S, such as the implementation of FRED (Flexible Return and Event Delivery) and AVX10, will be integrated into the new group’s work.
Intel also did not reveal whether similar initiatives will undergo adjustments due to this new dynamic.
Opportunities ahead
Although the abandonment of x86S represents a change of course, Intel continues to move forward on other fronts. The success of products like the Arc B580 GPU shows that the company still has the strength to recover and not take devastating turns as we have seen in the history of technology — like Kodak or Nokia.
The future of x86 will now depend on the Advisory Group’s ability to harmonize diverse interests. Despite the challenge of achieving consensus across such a broad class, Intel appears focused on preserving its technological leadership while adjusting its internal priorities to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market.
Source: Tom’s Hardware
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Source: https://www.adrenaline.com.br/intel/intel-encerra-iniciativa-x86s/
