Google plans to introduce into devices based on Android chips from new architecture – risc-v. The developers want to make this architecture the main one, as an alternative to the popular ARM technology, which dominates modern mobile devices. The new chip model was recently introduced by Qualcomm. This chip, called “RISC-V Snapdragon Wear”, will be used in wearable gadgets.
RISC -V is an open-source architecture that offers flexibility in configuring internal processes for different tasks and applications. This advantage makes the production of microcircuits cheaper and easier, eliminating the need for licensed assembly of ARM. The introduction of RISC-V into Android devices aims to utilize this architecture as an alternative to ARM.
ARM has faced several challenges in recent years, including attempted sales and public stock placements. These changes in the ARM business model have led to discontent among partners such as Qualcomm. Additionally, political issues, including the technological confrontation between the United States and China, have compelled former partners to seek alternatives like RISC-V.
Qualcomm has had some experience using RISC-V in microcontrollers within their chips, but the main core still relied on ARM. However, RISC-V has been gaining popularity quickly. To establish RISC-V as a fully functioning architecture for Android, significant work is required, such as developing tools for developers, compilers, libraries, and other components. Google is actively working on these modifications, aiming to seamlessly adapt existing Android applications written in Java or Kotlin.
Qualcomm has plans to further commercialize its RISC-V-based product and will soon announce its launch date.