Intel has confirmed that it is abandoning its original plan for the x86S initiative, which aimed to streamline the x86 architecture. Instead, the company will now focus on the newly formed x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group, a collaboration with AMD.
Pivoting Away from x86S
The x86S initiative, announced in 2023, aimed to remove unused 32-bit instructions from the x86 codebase, making it more efficient. However, Intel has now pivoted away from this plan. Despite this change, Intel emphasizes its continued commitment to the x86 architecture.
An Intel spokesperson told Tom’s Hardware:
We remain deeply committed to the x86 architecture, as demonstrated by the creation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group in collaboration with AMD and other industry leaders. This initiative reinforces our dedication to securing a strong future for x86, building on decades of software compatibility. While we have pivoted away from the x86S initiative, our focus remains on driving innovation and collaboration within the x86 ecosystem.
x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group
The x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group was formed earlier this year by Intel and AMD in response to the growing popularity of ARM architecture, particularly the arrival of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series and upcoming NVIDIA CPUs. This partnership aims to address the increasing competitiveness of ARM-based processors.
Future of x86
While the x86S initiative has been shelved, it appears that Intel and AMD are committed to collaborating within the advisory group. Intel is said to be still committed to innovating in the x86 space. The original x86 instruction set is 46 years old and has been updated many times over, but a "weight loss" was long due.
