JDK-8330623 : JEP 479: Remove the Windows 32-bit x86 Port
  • Type: JEP
  • Component: hotspot
  • Sub-Component: other
  • Priority: P3
  • Status: Closed
  • Resolution: Delivered
  • Fix Versions: 24
  • Submitted: 2024-04-19
  • Updated: 2025-02-20
  • Resolved: 2025-02-04
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Description
Summary
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Remove the source code and build support for the Windows 32-bit x86 port. This port was [deprecated for removal in JDK 21](https://openjdk.org/jeps/449) with the express intent to remove it in a future release.


Goals
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- Remove all code paths that apply only to Windows 32-bit x86.

- Cease all testing and development efforts targeting the Windows 32-bit x86 platform.

- Simplify the JDK's build and test infrastructure.


Non-Goals
---------

- It is not a goal to remove or change 32-bit support for any platforms other than Windows.

- It is not a goal to remove either code or support for Windows 32-bit in previous releases.


Motivation
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- Allow contributors in the OpenJDK Community to accelerate the development of new features and enhancements that will move the platform forward.

- The implementation of [JEP 436 (Virtual Threads)](https://openjdk.org/jeps/436) for Windows x86-32 falls back to the use of kernel threads and therefore does not bring the expected benefits of Project Loom.

- Windows 10, the last Windows operating system to support 32-bit operation, will reach End of Life in [October 2025](https://learn.microsoft.com/lifecycle/products/windows-10-home-and-pro).


Description
-----------

- Find and remove all code paths in the code base that apply only to Windows 32-bit.

- Modify the JDK build system to remove support for compiling on Windows 32-bit platforms, and  halt testing activities for this architecture.

- Update the JDK documentation to reflect the removal of Windows 32-bit support, and publicize this change so as to ensure a smooth transition for users and developers.


Risks and Assumptions
---------------------

Some users may still rely on 32-bit Java applications on Windows. This change requires Java applications running on 32-bit Windows to migrate to a 64-bit JDK and Windows environment, or else remain on legacy versions of the JDK, prior to JDK 23, which still include 32-bit support. Transition guidance and support by distributions and vendors of JDK binaries will be critical.

Comments
Endorsed.
05-11-2024

A JEP must be endorsed by one of the JDK Project Group or Area Leads (https://openjdk.org/projects/jdk/leads) before it is Proposed to Target. Please find such an endorser. Moving back to Candidate for now.
04-11-2024