[mental_]

If AMD can implement x86 in hardware, why can't Microsoft implement it in software?

[bryanlarsen]

Intel & AMD have a patent cross-licensing agreement. The x86-64 instruction set was designed and first implemented by AMD.

[dom0]

AMD and Intel have agreements (mainly due to x64).

[boulos]

AMD has a (non-transferable!) license to do so.

[std_throwaway]

I wonder if this kept AMD alive during the hard times.

x86 isn't going away for the next 10 years or longer.

[indolering]

Yup, Intel literally needs a competitor to keep out of hot-water with regards to anti-trust laws.