## Intel and AMD Join Forces to Secure the Future of x86 Architecture
In a significant move that underscores the enduring importance of the x86 architecture, Intel and AMD have announced the formation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group. This collaborative effort aims to bolster the x86 ecosystem, the dominant computing platform for decades, by enhancing compatibility, streamlining software development, and ensuring its ability to meet the demands of emerging technologies.
The x86 architecture, developed by Intel, has powered data centers and personal computers for over four decades. It remains a cornerstone of computing, with Intel and AMD holding the majority of the market share. According to Statista, Intel processors accounted for 63% of all x86 CPU tests in the third quarter of 2024, while AMD processors captured 33%.
This new initiative comes at a time when the x86 platform faces new challenges and opportunities. The rapid rise of AI, the advent of custom chiplets, and advancements in system architecture are placing significant pressure on the x86 ecosystem. The Advisory Group will play a crucial role in ensuring that x86 can adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment.
Pat Gelsinger, CEO of Intel, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating that the x86 architecture is at a pivotal point, requiring new levels of customization and scalability to meet the evolving demands of the market. Lisa Su, CEO of AMD, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Advisory Group will ensure the continued evolution of the x86 architecture to meet the needs of both developers and customers.
Major tech companies have already expressed their support for the initiative. Broadcom, Microsoft, and Google Cloud have all voiced their enthusiasm for the collaboration and its potential to enhance the x86 ecosystem. This widespread support underscores the importance of the x86 architecture in the current tech landscape.
The x86 processor has become the dominant platform for laptops, desktops, and servers worldwide. Both Windows and Mac laptops have relied on x86 chips. While Apple previously used PowerPC microprocessors for its Mac line, it switched to Intel’s x86 architecture in 2006. However, in 2020, Apple announced a transition from Intel CPUs to Arm Holdings plc-based processors for its Mac products, aiming to unify the architecture across its iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.
This collaborative effort between Intel and AMD signifies a commitment to the future of the x86 architecture. By working together, these industry giants aim to ensure that the x86 platform continues to be a driving force in computing for years to come.