Intel and AMD have announced today the creation of an x86 ecosystem advisory group, which will bring together key technology leaders to shape the future of the world’s most widely used computing architecture. This group aims to promote interoperability between hardware and software platforms, as well as foster innovation for developers and customers who rely on the superior performance of x86.
The x86 architecture, which has been the backbone of modern computing for over four decades, remains crucial in a constantly changing technological landscape characterized by artificial intelligence (AI), custom chipsets, and new 3D packaging architectures. With this new group, Intel and AMD seek to ensure that x86 evolves and adapts to the emerging needs of the market, while enabling the creation of scalable and advanced solutions.
“A significant change in x86 architecture”
“We are on the cusp of one of the most significant changes in x86 architecture and ecosystem in decades,” said Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger. “We are proud to collaborate with AMD and the founding members of this advisory group as we drive the future of computing and work to meet the current and future needs of customers.”
Lisa Su, President and CEO of AMD, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The establishment of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group will ensure that the x86 architecture continues to evolve as the preferred computing platform for both developers and customers. We are excited to bring the industry together to provide guidance on future architectural improvements and extend the incredible success of x86 for many more decades.”
“Objectives of the advisory group”
The advisory group will seek to identify new ways to improve compatibility between platforms and simplify software development, as well as provide architectural guidelines to enhance the consistency of interfaces between Intel and AMD products. Its main goals include:
– Increasing compatibility between hardware and software, allowing customers to leverage the latest innovations of x86.
– Facilitating the integration of new capabilities in operating systems, frameworks, and applications.
– Promoting consistent implementations of key x86 features across all sectors, including data centers, cloud, edge, and embedded devices.
“A history of collaboration and competition”
While Intel and AMD have been historical competitors, they have also collaborated on the development of fundamental standards and technologies such as PCI, PCIe, and USB. This new advisory group takes that collaboration to a deeper level, aiming to advance x86 architecture in a way that benefits the entire computing ecosystem.
“Industry leaders support the initiative”
The advisory group is backed by major industry leaders. Hock Tan, President and CEO of Broadcom, emphasized that “the architectural decisions we make today about x86 will impact programming models and systems for decades.” Dell Technologies CEO Michael Dell also highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating that it will continue to drive innovation for their customers.
With the support of giants like Google Cloud, HP Inc., Lenovo, Microsoft, Oracle, and Red Hat, the x86 ecosystem advisory group promises to be a catalyst for the next phase of innovation in modern computing.
The initiative marks a decisive step in ensuring that x86 architecture remains fundamental in a world where the demand for high-performance and scalable solutions continues to grow exponentially.