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Definitions of Terminology​

  1. ARM32 (also known as ARMv7 or 32-bit ARM): ARM32 refers to the 32-bit architecture for ARM processors. It supports 32-bit address space and operations, which limits the maximum directly addressable memory to 4 GB.

  2. ARM64 (also known as ARMv8 or 64-bit ARM): ARM64 is the 64-bit extension of the ARM architecture, offering greater computational power and a larger address space than ARM32. It supports 64-bit data paths, registers, and most importantly, can address more memory directly (over 4 billion times more than 32-bit processors).

  3. x86_64 (also known as x64, AMD64, Intel 64): x86_64 is a 64-bit extension of the x86 architecture originally developed by AMD. It is fully backward compatible with 32-bit x86 and supports vastly larger amounts (theoretically, 16 exabytes) of virtual memory and physical memory than is possible on its 32-bit predecessors.

Devices and Platforms Using ARM32, ARM64, and x86_64​

  • ARM32:
    • Used in older smartphones, tablets, and some low-power servers.
    • Common in embedded systems, such as home appliances and industrial devices.
  • ARM64:
    • Commonly used in modern smartphones and tablets (both Android and iOS).
    • Increasingly used in servers and high-performance computing due to its efficiency and performance.
    • Used in newer models of laptops and desktops, including Apple's M1 chip in Macs.
  • x86_64:
    • Dominant architecture in desktop and laptop computers running Windows, Linux, and older Mac OS versions.
    • Used in servers and high-performance computing environments.
    • Common in gaming consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4.

Statistics and Adoption Rates​

  • Android:

    • ARM64 is the standard for current Android devices due to its superior performance and capabilities.
    • ARM32 was common in older Android devices but is being phased out.

  • iOS:

    • Apple has transitioned entirely to ARM64 with the introduction of the Apple A7 chip in 2013.
    • All modern iPhones and iPads use ARM64.

  • Windows:

    • Primarily uses x86_64 architecture for desktops, laptops, and servers.
    • ARM64 is being integrated into newer devices like the Surface Pro X, offering better battery life and mobile connectivity.

  • Mac:

    • Transitioned from x86_64 to ARM64 with the introduction of Apple Silicon (M1, M2 chips) starting in late 2020.
    • This transition is part of Apple's plan to fully control the hardware and software ecosystem.

Average Lifespan and Adoption of New Platforms​

  • Average Lifespan of Hardware:

    • Smartphones and tablets: 2-4 years.
    • Laptops and desktops: 3-5 years.
    • Servers: 3-5 years for active service, though they may remain in less critical roles longer.

  • Adoption of New Platforms:

    • Consumer devices (smartphones, tablets): Rapid adoption, often within 1-2 years after release.
    • PCs and laptops: Slower, as legacy software compatibility and enterprise needs delay transitions.
    • Servers: Very cautious, with transitions often taking several years due to the need for stability and extensive testing.

The shift from older architectures to newer, more efficient ones like ARM64 in various devices highlights the industry's focus on enhancing performance while reducing power consumption and improving battery life.

https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-android-tablets

https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-foldable-phones

How Long Will My Android Phone Be Supported With OS updates​

Android phones are supported for 2-5 years on average after being released and set up. However, the exact amount of time varies from brand to brand. After this period, phones will receive fewer updates until they stop entirely. At this point, a phone is no longer supported.

Galaxy S9+​

Mozilla/5.0 (Linux; Android 8.0.0; SM-G965F Build/R16NW) AppleWebKit/537.36 (KHTML, like Gecko) Chrome/65.0.3325.109 Mobile Safari/537.36*