In the world of microprocessors, the name Intel carries significant weight. For decades, the tech giant’s x86 architecture has been a cornerstone of the PC market. Now, Intel is poised to make a groundbreaking shift with its new proposal – the ‘Intel x86S’ architecture.
In a recent whitepaper, Intel outlined its vision for a simplified processor instruction set architecture (ISA) that could reshape the future of computing. The goal is ambitious yet straightforward – to trim back the extensive legacy support that has been part of Intel’s architecture for years and transition to a 64-bit only system. This move is expected to bring a host of benefits, including improved hardware, firmware, and software implementations1.
The shift towards a 64-bit only architecture aligns with the contemporary computing landscape. Modern PC users, particularly those utilizing the latest Windows applications and games, have largely moved to 64-bit Windows, a trend that began during the Windows 7 era. This was a time when system RAM exceeding 4 GB became commonplace, necessitating the use of a 64-bit operating system capable of addressing more than the 3.2 GB limit of a 32-bit OS. With the release of Windows 11, a 64-bit only OS, and the increasing memory demands of contemporary applications and games, Intel’s proposal to retire architectural elements dating back to the original 8086 chip seems timely1.
Intel’s proposed x86S architecture streamlines several aspects of the current design:
- Using the simplified segmentation model of 64-bit for segmentation support for 32-bit applications, aligning with what modern operating systems already use.
- Removal of ring 1 and 2, which are unused by modern software, and obsolete segmentation features like gates.
- Elimination of 16-bit addressing support.
- Discontinuation of support for ring 3 I/O port accesses.
- Removal of string port I/O, which supported an obsolete CPU-driven I/O model.
- Limiting local interrupt controller (APIC) use to X2APIC and removing legacy 8259 support.
- Removal of some unused operating system mode bits1.
These changes aim to streamline and modernize the architecture, making it more efficient for contemporary computing needs.
For users who might be concerned about running older operating systems and software on the latest Intel hardware, there’s good news. Intel suggests the use of mature virtualization-based software solutions. Users can employ virtualization hardware (VMX) to emulate the features required to boot legacy operating systems1.
Intel’s proposed shift to a 64-bit only x86S architecture is a significant move that could affect a broad swath of the computing world. As such, Intel is actively seeking feedback from users and developers. Those potentially impacted by the proposed changes are encouraged to review the detailed whitepaper that Intel has published to better understand the transition and provide their valuable insights1.
With this bold move, Intel is demonstrating its commitment to innovation and the evolution of its technology. It will be fascinating to watch as the x86S architecture moves from concept to reality, potentially setting a new standard for the computing industry.
Stay tuned to AIG News for more updates on this exciting development in the world of tech.
