Intel has officially confirmed that it is ceasing development of x86S, a simplified version of the x86 architecture designed to run exclusively in 64-bit mode. The decision follows the creation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group in October, bringing together companies such as AMD, Google and other key industry players to jointly shape the future of x86 for a common purpose.
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The company noted that the transition to collaboration on x86 development better meets the needs of the ecosystem. “We remain deeply committed to the advancement of the x86 architecture, as demonstrated by the formation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group alliance in collaboration with AMD and other industry leaders. This underscores our commitment to future-proof x86 while maintaining decades of compatibility. Despite the abandonment of the x86S initiative, we continue to focus on innovation and collaboration within the x86 ecosystem,” an Intel spokesperson said.
Experts note that Intel’s decision to abandon x86S seems logical, since any significant changes in the architecture require coordination with AMD to ensure full compatibility. In a duopoly in the processor market, where Intel and AMD are the main manufacturers of x86-based chips, standardization is key. In addition, successful change requires support from major software developers and other ecosystem players, which was one of the reasons for the creation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group.
Also, joining forces looks most strategically advantageous against the backdrop of growing competition from the Arm architecture, especially in the consumer device and data center segments. In this case, an additional factor could be large-scale layoffs and restructuring within Intel, as well as the search for a new CEO of the company.