Intel is no longer working on the x86S specification. The chipmaker confirmed its decision to Tom’s Hardware, and comes just a months after it formed the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group with AMD, Google, and other titans of industry.
Intel’s original plan was to de-bloat the x86 instruction set by developing a simplified 64-bit mode-only x86S version. It last published a draft for the initiative back in May 2023, updating it to version 1.2 in June this year.
“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.” – Intel spokesperson to Tom’s Hardware.
It can be argued that Intel’s decision to cease work on the x86S specification is for the greater good. The x86 architecture is already 46 years old and at current, only the blue chipmaker and its red rival, AMD, are the only two primary licensees that produce chips based on it in high volumes.
For now, Intel has other x86 initiatives in the pipeline, including Flexible Return and Even Delivery (FRED) as well as the new AVX10 specification.
(Source: Tom’s Hardware)
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