ARM and Broadcom extend relationship with ARMv7 and ARMv8 architecture licenses

UK & USA: ARM and Broadcom Corp. announced that Broadcom has licensed the ARMv7 and ARMv8 architectures. The agreement will enable Broadcom to develop and build its own processors based on the ARM architecture.

The ARMv7 architecture is the basis for all current 32-bit ARM Cortex processors, including the Cortex-A15 and Cortex-A9 processors. The ARMv8 architecture is the first ARM architecture that includes 64-bit execution, enabling processors based on the architecture to combine 64-bit execution with 32-bit execution.

The ARMv8 architecture applies ARM’s heritage in energy-efficiency to 64-bit computing and extends the applicability of ARM processors into new application areas. Broadcom is one of the lead partners for the Cortex-A50 series of processors, the first implementation of the ARMv8 architecture, launched at the ARM TechCon in 2012.

“We have enjoyed a close partnership with Broadcom for many years and we are delighted to extend this relationship still further. Broadcom is a leading communications semiconductor solution vendor and has delivered highly differentiated SoCs including a range of ARM processor-based products, across a broad range of applications,” said Simon Segars, president, ARM. “As the first ARM architecture to enable 64- as well as 32-bit execution, the ARMv8 architecture represents a significant milestone for ARM and opens up new opportunities and markets for our silicon partners.”

“Access to the ARMv7 and ARMv8 architecture will enable Broadcom to bring innovation through highly optimized 32- and 64-bit SoC implementations to deliver high-performance, low-power solutions across a broad range of market applications including broadband access and set-top box,” said Daniel A. Marotta, executive VP and GM, Broadband Communications Group, Broadcom. “The ARM architecture, combined with ARM’s extensive software ecosystem, will enable us to address the growing requirements of existing markets and extend the reach of our innovative, high performance SoCs to new customers and applications.”