Intel has finished its work on a 64-bit version of Android’s Linux kernel
Intel doesn’t want partners to be held up
As 2014 started rolling out, we’re already staring seeing things in 64-bit. OEMs and chip-makers are following Apple’s example for a powerful 64-bit SoC and it appears that in the Android world, it is Intel that will go ahead of everyone. It’s no surprise; it’s the micro-processor giant we’re talking about. According to the latest report, the developer has finished working on its 64-bit version of Android’s Linux kernel designed for Silvermont low power processor architecture.
In a quick reminder, Silvermont is foundation for two system-on-chip ranges, starting with the Merrified that is aimed to smartphones, and the Bat Trail which targets tablets and the so called hybrids. Intel announced its code to a 64-bit version of the latest Android 4.4 KitKat being in complete and according to the VP and General Manager of the Mobile and Communications Group of Intel, Hermann Eul, OEM’s using Silvermont based Atom CPUs have a 64-bit version of Anfroid available to adopt on devices. At least at the kernel level whatsoever.
Since there still hasn’t been a word on what Google plans to do regarding the support of 64-bit in Android, the Vice president also added that Intel doesn’t want partners to be held up. In that term, when Google does provide some answers, partners could just slot that code into place.
As an OS, Android is a complex one consisting multiple layers with Linus kernel at the bottom and that’s the point where the software meets the hardware.The other layers positioned on the top include Android run-time, libraries, frameworks and the actual applications. In that term, Intel ensures the kernel to boot and work in 64-bit on Silvermont CPUs. So far, it is only the bottom layer that is 64-bit, so making a full conversion might take some time. More details about the support for 64-bit Android are expected to surface during MWC next month, so stay tuned.
Source: Android Authority
