New X86S architecture from Intel: Here is the purpose and details of the new architecture

Intel has detailed its new X86S architecture, which aims to simplify the processor instruction set architecture (ISA). Changes proposed by Intel include reducing extensive legacy support, providing 64-bit-only compatibility along with a new and simplified architecture. Intel explained the X86S architecture in detail in its blog post. But in a nutshell, the x86S architecture aims to remove legacy execution modes to benefit future hardware, firmware, and software applications.

New X86S aims to simplify architecture

Many PC users, who enjoy playing the latest Windows applications and up-to-date games, switched to 64-bit Windows during the Windows 7 era. The Windows 7 era actually coincides with the time when system RAM amounts above 4 GB became common (32-bit operating systems can only address 3.2 GB of RAM) and 64-bit applications and games began to go mainstream. So, with the current Windows 11 operating system being 64-bit only, apps and games consuming gigabytes of RAM, it seems reasonable that Intel would want to obscure its architectural considerations that date back to the original 8086 chip.

The x86 instruction set was first introduced by Intel in 1978 with the 8086 16-bit CPU. Although the proposed x86S ISA is still in the design and feedback phase, we can say that it will be one of the biggest upgrades to the x86 architecture since the introduction of 64-bit registers and memory addressing with the x86-64 instruction set.

64-bit is popular now, and according to Intel, this is an opportunity.

As Intel highlights in its blog, the longevity of the x86 architecture includes one of the richest software ecosystems available today, with an “enormous” installed base of PC, cloud and mobile devices. The 64-bit architecture, known today as x86-64, and adopted by Intel 20 years ago after it was first introduced by AMD, has become the dominant operating mode for modern software and operating systems.

Intel feels that the popularity of x86-64 finally presents an opportunity to simplify the x86 hardware and software ecosystem. Intel says the new x86S ISA removes certain legacy modes that are of little use in modern operating environments. On the other hand, X86-S will continue to provide broad compatibility for 32-bit Win32 applications. Therefore, there is no risk for those who depend on old software or games for now.

As for support for older 64-bit operating systems, Intel says its virtualization technology is mature enough to offer software and hardware solutions that will keep users happy. Intel suggests that everything else (16-bit, DOS, 32-bit operating systems) will only work on emulators and virtual machines.