Intel and dropping support for 16 and 32 bit software.

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Intel proposes ditching 32-bit support with new x86-S architecture

A new whitepaper published by Intel explores the possibility of ditching 32-bit support and switching entirely to 64-bit, ending support for older software.

www.custompc.com

This is a lot to think about. Can see some really upset people.

 

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It’s rather topical, especially when it’s comes to the lasagna’s of fail that are windows operating systems.

I get where you’re coming from with some 16, 32 bit applications, but also very much no for other types of code.

I can see a lot of TVM coming Intels way.

 

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Its more to do with getting rid of the old school baggage (real mode) from the boot cycle, 32bit code will not be affected.

Intel's New X86-S : Eliminating Technical Debt and Adopting FRED

Need POTATO merch? There's a chip for that! http://merch.techtechpotato.comOne of the legacy elements of modern computing are the 16-bit and 32-bit modes of ...

www.youtube.com

Well some things will have to change rather significantly. It’s going to be interesting to see the response that’s for sure.

 

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The only ones that will even notice are OS developers that create boot loaders. It might also speed the post/boot cycle a little. Overall, it needs to be done as the CPU's still have to support 8086 modes which is a little crazy. Some will still get upset about it, even though it’s been known about for years.

Not only people working with operating systems, plenty of others will. It’s a lot to think about on a middle ware driver level.

 

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You can still buy hardware now and will be able to for years. How long do you think they should support 8086 legacy modes that 99.99..% of users don’t use? Also, a lot of the stuff can be run in a VM if needed. Users have had decades to find replacement software, at some point you have to accept that things change.

You seem to be missing my point somewhat. But “they” whoever they are, should support 16- 32 bit forever, muhaha.

 

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They = The CPU
I think most things will continue to work; somethings may need to be emulated but seems like the internet has emulator for everything. They have put this change off for a long time, I don’t think they are looking forward to all the hate.

Yeah, stacks of cards will fall. Dammed either way, but legacy in windows is strong.

 

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Have you not watched the video? After the OS boots nothing really changes, if it worked before it will work after. The main changes will be in the boot loaders. At this point, boot loaders start in legacy mode, then switch through several other modes, then finally to 64bit and the OS takes over, the changes just mean The CPU starts in 64bit mode so the very old modes that are no longer used are removed. Note: 32bit applications are not affected, at all.

Erm maybe yeah-nah… ?