The chip giant has updated the specifications of its X86S architecture to version 1.2which is an important step because it indicates that Intel is not only committed to this architecture, but is also very serious about everything that comes from it, both in terms of performance and legacy application support.

X86 architecture It is the basis of modern computing almost 50 years. It originated in the 1970s with the introduction of the Intel 8086 processor, one of the Santa Clara giant’s most legendary chips, which marked its entry into It was 16 bits.

This architecture was preserved with the jump to 32-bit, and the same happened with the advent of X86-64 processors that ushered us into the 64-bit era, but maintaining full 16-bit and 32-bit support.

According to Intel, much of the instruction set and functions used by the X86 architecture They became obsolete and a burdenbut are necessary to maintain compatibility with 16-bit and 32-bit applications. This is where the Intel X86S comes into play, an architecture that tries to eliminate such compatibility entirely.

Intel X86S: all or nothing for 64-bit

That’s Intel’s goal with this latest update to said architecture, to unburden it of all the legacy instructions and functions necessary to maintain 16-bit and 32-bit compatibility. However, the chip giant realizes that 32-bit applications still have an important weight, and that’s why it made the decision Don’t turn your back on them completely.

The upgrade to version 1.2 introduces a compatibility mode with 32-bit applications. It doesn’t say exactly how this mode works, but it’s clear that it’s no longer the equivalent of full support, and that it’s another step that will eventually lead us to end support for 32-bit apps sooner or later.

I think it’s a logical step, but I also think it’s very complicated for several reasons. The first and most important is that one of the most important values A major feature of the X86 architecture has always been its compatibility with legacy applications, extensive support that goes back several decades and allows very old software to run on current hardware without issue.

This change would have its advantages, as it would allow for the modernization of this architecture and significant lightening, but it could reduce its value. Also can cause problems for many users, both private and professional, who still use 32-bit applications, and creates uncertainty about the future of the x86-64 ecosystem, a standard in which AMD played a vital role, being the first to market a 64-bit general consumption processor.