Intel Simics 6 Transitioning to Legacy State

The Intel® Simics® platform reached its seventh iteration in March 2025. The new version has plenty of compelling features to attract developers who need hardware simulation. But the introduction of Simics version 7 means that version 6 has moved into legacy status and will be deemed end-of-life (EOL) in July 2026. 

That presents users with a decision to make, depending on whether they are ready to embrace new technologies or prefer to continue working with the tools they know and trust.

Option 1: Adopt Intel Simics 7

If you are using different simulation technology or are new to simulation, we encourage you to explore the latest version, which represents a major architectural step forward. Intel Simics 7 offers developers easier maintenance and support, has faster build and test times, and uses less compute resources and disk space. It’s easier to navigate and use the product, with smaller downloads and faster installs.

Need encouragement to explore the new version? Among its new features and capabilities:

• Intel Simics as a Python module (v3.10)
• In-memory snapshots replace reverse execution
• Target parameter systems
• CMake as the default module build tool
• A new PCIe framework
• API abstraction for C++ programmers, DML-alike
• DML1.4 Virtio devices: network, block devices, virtiofs 

There’s a lot to like.

Option 2: Execute a Transition Process

If you are using Intel Simics 6 today and decide you want the latest version, migrating to the updated environment will require planning and effort. Our team is ready to assist yours to ensure that the transition is smooth and minimally disruptive.

We recommend conducting a structured transition process, in which your team assesses workflows, trains the staff, and implements changes. Depending on the complexity of your current setup, this may take several months. Our experts can collaborate with you to design a timeline that meets operational needs while minimizing the risks.

Get started by reading the Simics 7 Migration Guide. By aligning closely with the Intel team and focusing on the evolution of the Intel Simics roadmap, Wind River experts created a detailed transition document that outlines the new architecture’s benefits and helps you evaluate the overall migration effort.

Option 3: Remain on the Legacy Product with Dedicated Support

We recognize that some customers may prefer to stay with Intel Simics 6, even as it transitions into legacy status. While ongoing updates and new features will no longer be available, our dedicated legacy support and maintenance team will provide custom solutions and technical assistance. This option ensures stability and continuity while maintaining access to expert guidance.

Wind River system simulation provides commercial support and maintenance for current Intel Simics versions, professional services for model creation, and configuration and optimizations including support extended to non-x86 architectures. For legacy versions, the commercial offerings include long-term licensing and long-term support to ensure non-disruptive transitions of existing projects to the new Intel Simics 7.

Moving Forward Together

No matter which pathway your organization chooses, the overarching goal is the same: empowering you to make informed decisions.

The legacy state is not an abrupt ending but the beginning of a carefully designed transition timeline. Over the next year, customers using Intel Simics 6 will have ample opportunities to evaluate their options, use available support services, and move forward in alignment with their goals. Our mission is to empower you throughout this cycle, offering transparency and collaboration every step of the way.

Whether you plan to adopt Simics version 7 now, execute a transition process, or opt for dedicated legacy support, you can rely on Wind River’s expertise and unwavering commitment to your success. The future is bright for simulation — and the tools supporting those fast deployments need to keep up or adapt to a new paradigm.  

What’s your next step? Contact your Wind River representative to learn about the available options and get personalized guidance from our experts.

Note: Intel and Simics are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries.

By James Hui, product line manager, Wind River