Linux kernel developers discuss deleting old CPU platforms

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Recently, Arnd Bergmann, a well-known Linux kernel developer, initiated a discussion about deleting support for a bunch of old CPU platforms. Since Linux 5.10 was officially announced as the LTS version, he found that there are some ARM platforms that have not been maintained or used for at least 5 years, so he researched these CPU platforms that seemed to need to be deleted, and made a few lists.

Recommended platforms to delete

  • asm9260
  • axxia
  • bcm/kona
  • digicolor
  • dove
  • efm32
  • nspire
  • picoxcell
  • prima2
  • spear
  • tango
  • u300
  • vt8500

Some old CPU platform but still working platforms, if someone suggests to delete them, he can help:

  • clps711x
  • cns3xxx
  • ep93xx
  • footbridge
  • gemini
  • hisi (hip01/hip05)
  • highbank
  • iop32x
  • ixp4xx
  • lpc18xx
  • lpc32xx
  • mmp
  • moxart
  • mv78xx0
  • nomadik
  • oxnas
  • pxa
  • rpc
Some non-ARM platforms that have not been maintained or used for a long time, see if the maintainer wants to delete:
  • h8300
  • c6x
  • sparc/sun4m
  • powerpc/cell
  • powerpc/chrp (32-bit rs6000, pegasos2)
  • m68k/{apollo,hp300,sun3,q40}
  • mips/jazz
  • mips/cobalt

In addition, some platforms are very old and may have passed their best service date:

  • 80486SX/DX
  • Alpha 2106x
  • IA64 Merced
  • MIPS R3000/TX39xx
  • PowerPC 601 (from 1992)
  • SuperH SH-2
  • 68000/68328 (Dragonball)

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