As someone who's spent more than a decade in mobile device management, I've witnessed the fascinating evolution of operating systems in the mobile world. The legacy x86 compute platforms that once dominated the landscape, are rapidly being replaced with purpose-built devices utilizing ARM-based platforms. In this blog post, we'll delve into the history of x86 operating systems, the rising popularity of ARM-focused versions, and why Android stands as the market leader in both GMS and non-GMS variants. We'll also explore the rapidly developing RISC-V ecosystem and it's protential impact on the edge compute industry in the near future.
The x86 architecture emerged in the late 1970s, paving the way for the first personal computers. It quickly became the dominant choice for desktop and laptop operating systems, thanks to its compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware components. x86 architecture employs a CISC (complex instruction set computer) design meaning it can handle more complicated low-level instructions. In the early days this allowed for complex to be done with less memory, but at the expense of CPU cycles. The x86 CISC design has strong levels of compatibility so CPUs even from different manufacturers could run the same software - think Intel and AMD processors both being capable of running Windows or Linux binaries.
Microsoft Windows and Intel processors formed a formidable duo, driving the popularity of x86-based devices through the 1990s and early 2000s. The Windows operating system became synonymous with personal computing, while Intel's processors powered the majority of desktop and laptop devices.
Despite its success in traditional computing, x86 faced challenges in the mobile landscape. Power consumption and heat generation were key concerns, making it unsuitable for compact and energy-efficient mobile devices.
ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) architecture debuted in the 1980s, designed for efficiency and low power consumption. As in the name, ARM uses a RISC (reduced instruction set computer) design meaning that more instructions are required, but each can be processed more efficiently from a CPU cycle perspective. The simplicity in the processor instructions offers efficiency on the processor, but can introduce complexity at the OS level. Today, most operating systems built for ARM need to be designed with each chip in mind. As memory became cheaper, and companies like ARM and Qualcomm developed to help work with operating system developers to streamline code compatibility, ARM designs quickly exploded in popularity in the mobile device space.
ARM processors' energy-efficient design allowed for longer battery life in smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices. Smaller form factors enabled the creation of sleek and compact devices, revolutionizing the not only the mobile industry but a host of devices embedded in industrial and operational supply chains.
The introduction of the iPhone in 2007 and the subsequent rise of Android-powered smartphones disrupted the mobile landscape. Android's compatibility with ARM processors played a crucial role in its widespread adoption.
The efficiency and performance of ARM-based platforms saw them quickly dominate the mobile market. Device manufacturers and software developers embraced ARM architecture to harness its benefits for enhanced user experiences, chip efficiency and longer battery life..
Android's flexible nature allowed for two distinct variants: Google Mobile Services (GMS) and non-GMS versions. GMS versions come pre-loaded with Google apps and services, while non-GMS variants offer greater customization and freedom for device manufacturers.
Android's support for ARM architecture and its open-source nature made it an ideal choice for various device types, from smartphones and tablets to IoT devices, smart TVs, and more.
ARM's energy-efficient design results in longer battery life for mobile devices, a crucial factor for today's always-connected world.
ARM-based platforms enable the creation of sleek and lightweight devices, catering to the demand for portability and ease of use.
Device manufacturers can customize ARM-based platforms to suit their specific requirements, creating purpose-built devices for various industries and use cases.
Despite their small size, ARM processors offer impressive computing power, making them suitable for complex applications and multitasking.
RISC-V is the latest CPU design and was released by the University California at Berkley in 2015. It is uniquely open source, and has gained a lot of attention with corporations developing developer single board computers to large-scale servers based on the architecture. While first release was in 2015, the initial instruction set was designed in 2010, and the RISC-V foundation has seen investment and aid from Microsoft, Intel, DARPA, and even the Linux Foundation. Compared to ARM which was founded in 1990, RISC-V is relatively young, but it's open source nature has attracted a lot of interest and innovation in the short 8 years since first release.
Time will tell how far and which industries RISC-V will excel in, but the open nature makes it attractive for regions and industries requiring highly-effiicent, transparent architecture devoid of the pay walls and regulations most other proprietary chip designs typically use.
The history of mobile operating systems reflects the continuous evolution of technology and user preferences. And while there are still valid use-cases for legacy x86 architecture, the rise of ARM-based platforms, driven by their energy efficiency, portability, and customization options, has reshaped the mobile device landscape. As we race into a new era of edge management, the platforms you choose will vital role in ensuring seamless and secure experiences for users across more modern, ARM-powered devices.
Additional reference:
https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/linux/ARM-vs-x86
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X86
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complex_instruction_set_computer
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reduced_instruction_set_computer