> I have used x86-64 linux for like 5 years and it *is* noticeably faster > then x86-32. Yes, many people pushing for 64-bit OS want it for better performance but this really affects math intensive applications! That means, conversion/encoding (video + audio) programs, encryption + compression programs, 3D programs, etc. - Any software that maxes out the CPU 1) Going 32-bit means that everyone with x86 (Pentium or better) gets to use Haiku. With 64-bit, some people will be left out. Like 25-40%? Or maybe higher? 2) How many people use math intense applications? How much of their total computer use is for this? Sure, 64-bit gives better performance, on programs that use lots of math you get 20-40% faster, but those people that listen to audio, play movies, surf the web, write emails, write documents, make computer drawings, etc. would see no benefit compared to 32-bit OS! It is better to lose out on some extra performance by staying with 32-bit than to exclude a bunch of users who still use 32-bit computers. 33% of my family's computers are still 32-bit. Even Microsoft still supports 32-bit OS with Windows 7. Many Linuxes also provide 32-bit versions. Why have they not dropped 32-bit completely? That should tell you something.