Linux Kernel 7.1 to Phase Out i486 CPU Support A patch authored by Ingo Molnar has been queued for the Linux 7.1 kernel, initiating the removal of support for Intel's i486 processor, first released in 1989. The change targets the M486, M486SX, and ELAN variants, dismantling hardware emulation facilities that maintain compatibility with this ancient 32-bit x86 architecture. No major Linux distributions currently ship with i486 support, making this a logical step forward. Linus Torvalds has expressed strong support for dropping it, stating there's 'zero real reason for anybody to waste one second of development effort' on such legacy code, which occasionally causes issues for modern development. The patch series begins the phase-out process, with full removal to follow in subsequent releases. Users still relying on i486 systems—likely in niche embedded or industrial applications—can continue with Long Term Support (LTS) kernels like 6.12, supported until at least 2036. Discussions on Slashdot highlight that even specialized systems like Hubble's 486 use VRTX RTOS, not Linux, and debate the rarity of high-RAM 486 setups suitable for modern software. Commenters note BSDs and older OS/2 variants have already moved on, emphasizing that open-source nature allows forking if needed. This move frees developer resources for contemporary hardware without stranding legacy users, as older kernels remain available and archived indefinitely.

Linux Kernel 7.1 to Phase Out i486 CPU Support

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Quick technical question.

I do use Windows 10 and someone gifted a "Sennheiser accentum" Bluetooth headset to me. To connect the device I do use a ASUS Bluetooth dongle.

Sometimes the headset does not allow the volume to be controlled by Windows anymore. To resolve the issue I do need to […]

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