Virtual machine speeds up Android apps up to 5x

MIPS Technologies and Myriad Group AG have co-developed a full method-based Dalvik Turbo virtual machine (VM) optimized for the MIPS architecture.

Myriads Dalvik Turbo VM replaces the standard Android Dalvik engine, accelerating performance up to 5x on real-world Android applications running on MIPS-based devices.

With Dalvik Turbo VM, said Malcolm Dawe, chief product officer, Myriad Group, MIPS licensees can create SoCs with faster, more complex applications and richer game graphics optimized for Android smart phones and other high-performance consumer devices without requiring significant increases in device memory.

The VM also provides substantial battery life improvements when running resource intensive tasks, all while retaining full compatibility with existing software. Myriads Dalvik Turbo VM is operational on all current versions of Android up to and including versions 2.1 (clair) and soon to be available for 2.2 (Froyo).

An evaluation version of the optimized VM will be available free-of-charge through the Android on MIPS community by August 1.

- Bernard Cole
Embedded.com