How far does the recall go? Should there just be a recall for Meltdown, or does that also extend to Spectre?
There wasn't a software workaround for the FDIV bug, which is why there was a recall. The F00F bug did have a software workaround, which is why there wasn't a recall for that bug. Meltdown also has a software workaround, though one with a potentially significant performance hit. Meltdown seems more like the F00F bug in that respect. Arguably, Spectre is a better candidate for a recall than Meltdown. A
There should be at least some attempt at reparations. Any processor currently being manufactured (3 years or younger) -- you would have the option of opting to get a replacement for the CPU if it is socketed by sending it into Intel (or taking it to a service centre of Intel's choosing to replace) and then getting a fixed CPU (probably timeline at least 9 months). Manufacturers could opt to replace the board at cost with new CPUs for computers that are currently in use. If you opt to keep it you would get a reimbursement of about 25% of the tray price of the CPU - which would be funnelled through manufacturers/retailers.
I think you would find that a small minority would opt to have the CPU replaced or the board replaced -- costing much less than what might be feared. It would however give the impression that the manufacturer (Intel) stands behind their products.
"I want repaired processors for free" (Score:5, Insightful)
You know, he's not wrong. This is, in impact, way bigger than Intel's FDIV fiasco and that ended up in recalls.
Re: "I want repaired processors for free" (Score:4, Insightful)
How far does the recall go? Should there just be a recall for Meltdown, or does that also extend to Spectre?
There wasn't a software workaround for the FDIV bug, which is why there was a recall. The F00F bug did have a software workaround, which is why there wasn't a recall for that bug. Meltdown also has a software workaround, though one with a potentially significant performance hit. Meltdown seems more like the F00F bug in that respect. Arguably, Spectre is a better candidate for a recall than Meltdown. A
CPU replacement or partial refund. (Score:2)
I think you would find that a small minority would opt to have the CPU replaced or the board replaced -- costing much less than what might be feared. It would however give the impression that the manufacturer (Intel) stands behind their products.