64-Bit Rush Is On at MWC

Kevin Krewell, Principal Analyst, Tirias Research
EETimes (2/24/2014 12:20 PM EST)

BARCELONA – Since the introduction of the Apple iPhone 5S with the 64-bit Apple A7 processor, it's become something of a status symbol to have a 64-bit mobile applications processor. Intel, Mediatek, Nvidia, and Qualcomm either announced 64-bit plans before or during the Mobile World Congress here.

While there’s no proof that mobile devices are ready for 64-bit code, the Apple introduction has kicked off a flurry of 64-bit chip announcements that continue through the 2014 Mobile World Congress. The rush to 64-bit mobile processors is on.

Does 64-bit ARM processors make any sense in a 2014 smartphone? Or is 64-bitness the next big marketing check-off box for smartphone chip makers? But will consumers of high-end smartphones be clamoring for 64-bit processors, like the one found in the Apple iPhone 5S? The answers are: somewhat, clearly, and uncertain. In addition, there’s going to be an uneven introduction of 64-bit processors in the market.

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