Open source foundation to support MIPS architecture

Imagination Technologies is leading the 'prpl' initiative, with other members including Broadcom, Cavium, Ikanos, Ineda Systems, Ingenic Semiconductor, Lantiq, Nevales Networks, PMC and Qualcomm. The main focus is on enabling next generation 'data centre to device' portable software and virtualised architectures. Imagination CEO Hossein Yassaie, pictured, said: "This is an important new initiative in the further development of the MIPS ecosystem. "The commitment and support we have seen since our acquisition of MIPS in 2013 has been impressive and prpl will focus on and develop a valuable strand of that support to deliver outstanding benefits for users, and compelling ROI for members. Consistent with imagination's agnostic approach to IP, Yassaie added that the prpl foundation will be supportive of heterogeneous architectures. Initial domains targeted by the group include data centre, networking, digital home and embedded/IoT. The idea is that each member adds value by bringing expertise in their specialist field. Qualcomm, for example, will be focusing on networking initiatives such as fostering a community around a carrier-grade OpenWrt.