Intel has introduced a simplified processor architecture X86S, which functions solely in a 64-bit regime, with no support for outdated concepts. The company has discontinued support for 16- and 32-bit operating systems in the X86S, though they can still be launched through virtualization. However, the possibility of launching 32-bit applications within a 64-bit OS will be retained.
The new processors will commence immediately in their 64-bit mode, eliminating intermediate switching to 16- and 32-bit modes during initialization. Additionally, the X86S includes the possibility of switching to the use of a 5-level structure of the memory pages without the need for preliminary shutdown of countries addressing and bypassing the transition of the transition of the transition.
Among the key features of architecture X86S are the termination of support for 16-bit addressing and the possibility of redundering the size of the address, as well as the use of a simplified 64-bit model of Segment Addressing of Memory to support segmented addressing in 32-bit applications. The architecture also supports Rings 1 and 2 Protection, which are not utilized in modern software. Support for the 32-bit regime in the zero protection ring is terminated, along with the removal of 16- and 32-bit secure modes. Access to entry/output ports from the third protection ring is also discontinued, while string operations with entry/output ports are still supported. The design terminates support for the interruption controllers 8259 and adopts the use of programmable controllers x2apic. Finally, several unused bits of the operating system modes are removed.
The X86S architecture is shown in detail in an image presented on Intel’s website. The company has yet to release specifics on when processors with the new architecture will be available for purchase.