On October 15th, Intel and AMD announced the formation of the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group, aimed at enhancing software compatibility across their x86-based chips. This move comes as both companies face increasing competition from Arm Holdings, whose architecture has gained traction in sectors traditionally dominated by x86, including datacenters and PCs.

The advisory group includes leading tech companies such as Broadcom, Dell, Google, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, HP Inc., Lenovo, Meta, Microsoft, Oracle, and Red Hat. By collaborating with these hardware and software giants, Intel and AMD aim to simplify the software development process and ensure consistency and compatibility across platforms that use their x86 technology.

For over four decades, x86 has been the backbone of modern computing, powering laptops, PCs, and servers. However, Arm's architecture, which guarantees compatibility across all Arm chips, regardless of the manufacturer, has eroded Intel and AMD’s market share. Companies like Apple, Qualcomm, Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet have increasingly adopted Arm-based chips, especially in datacenters and mobile devices.

In response, the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group will work to ensure that software can seamlessly run across Intel and AMD chips without requiring significant adjustments. This collaboration represents a shift in strategy for both companies, which have historically been fierce competitors, but now recognize the importance of working together to strengthen the x86 ecosystem.

Intel and AMD’s partnership isn’t entirely new, as they have previously collaborated on key technologies such as PCI, PCIe, and the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI). The new advisory group aims to build on these efforts and further elevate their collaboration to drive innovation across the computing industry.

Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger, speaking at a developer event hosted by Lenovo, emphasized the continued relevance of x86 in the era of artificial intelligence. "Rumors of my death are severely exaggerated. We are alive and well," he stated. Gelsinger added that x86 is poised for a period of expansion and customization, particularly as AI opens new opportunities.

As Arm continues to grow in influence, the x86 Ecosystem Advisory Group represents Intel and AMD's commitment to maintaining their position as leaders in the computing world by fostering a unified, compatible x86 architecture that drives future innovation.