The world’s most efficient 64-bit mobile processor

16th November 2015

ARM Ltd

Jordan Mulcare

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ARM announced the ARM Cortex-A35 processor, a new standard-bearer for efficiency among 64-bit capable processors. The processor is the first CPU in a new family of ultra-high-efficiency ARMv8-A processors designed for high-growth mobile and embedded applications. Cortex-A35 has been designed to open up greater user experiences enabled by the ARMv8-A architecture with its 64- and 32-bit computational capability and complete set of cryptography features. ARM expects the Cortex-A35 to begin shipping in production silicon from its partners by late 2016.

The Cortex-A35 is the most efficient Cortex-A class CPU ever designed by ARM. It takes the power profile of Cortex-A7 and its ARM big.LITTLE multi-core configurability and combines it with the software maturity and 64-bit compute performance of the ARMv8-A architecture. Cortex-A35 also delivers an average of 20% greater performance and efficiency across a range of 32-bit mobile workloads relative to Cortex-A7 while consuming less than 90mW total power per core when operating at 1GHz in a 28nm process node.

Overall, the Cortex-A35 processor is a performance-per-mW leader designed to enable a complete and uncompromised 64-bit mobile user experience while maintain full compatibility with existing 32-bit applications.

“Cortex-A35 is the natural successor to the compact-footprint Cortex-A7, the leading energy-efficient processor, which has powered more than a billion smartphones and tablets,” said James McNiven, General Manager, CPU group. “With the introduction of the world’s most efficient 64-bit capable mobile processor, ARM and its partners will deliver the benefits of 64-bit computing to the next billion smartphone users and beyond."

ARM and its partners are building a 64-bit ecosystem that is growing rapidly, with more than 50% of smartphones now shipping using an SoC based on the ARMv8-A architecture. The 64-bit capable Cortex-A53 represents a large percentage of those units. The Cortex-A35 consumes about 33% less power per core and occupies 25% less silicon area, relative to the Cortex-A53.

“The ARM Cortex-A35 processor is welcomed by MediaTek for its scalability of the ARMv8-A architecture, which will enable us to continue to provide efficient and highly integrated 64-bit SoCs to global markets,” said Jeffrey Ju, Executive Vice President and Co-Chief Operating Officer, MediaTek.

Cortex-A35 is the first in this new family of ultra-high-efficiency processors to enable integration of the ARMv8-A architecture attributes into power-constrained embedded applications such as single-board computers and automotive. This family of processors is the most compelling new IP option in the industry for markets that expect more features and functionality within shrinking power envelopes. Additionally, to support the differentiation and rapid deployment of embedded applications, ARM is backing the new family of processors with a full package of training and design assistance services for its partners.