Agent Centric Operating System -- a Comprehensive Review and Outlook for Operating System

TL;DR

This review paper offers an in-depth analysis of operating systems' evolution, current state, and prospects, and puts forward a new OS architecture.

Abstract

The operating system (OS) is the backbone of modern computing, providing essential services and managing resources for computer hardware and software. This review paper offers an in-depth analysis of operating systems' evolution, current state, and prospects. We begin with an overview of the concept and significance of operating systems in the digital era. In the second section, we delve into the existing released operating systems, examining their architectures, functionalities, and the ecosystems they support. We then explore recent advances in OS evolution, highlighting innovations in real-time processing, distributed computing, and security. The third section focuses on the new era of operating systems, discussing emerging trends like the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) integration. We also consider the challenges and opportunities presented by these developments. This review concludes with a synthesis of the current landscape and a forward-looking discussion on the future trajectories of operating systems, including open issues and areas ripe for further research and innovation. Finally, we put forward a new OS architecture.

Figures (12)

• Figure 1: Evolution of Computing Eras and Corresponding Growth in Connected Devices. This diagram illustrates the progression through various computing eras, highlighting the exponential increase in connected devices from tens of thousands during the Mainframe Era to an estimated 100 billion in the Internet of Things era. Each era represents significant technological advancements leading to greater connectivity and device proliferation.
• Figure 2: Historical Timeline of Operating Systems Across Different Device Categories. This figure provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems across server, desktop, mobile, and embedded categories over time, spanning from the early days of computing in the mid-20th century up until recent years.
• Figure 3: Chronological Development of Embedded Operating Systems and Associated Technological Milestones. This figure chronicles the evolution of embedded operating systems from their origins in the late 20th century to contemporary platforms, alongside pivotal technological advancements that have driven innovation in this domain.
• Figure 4: Historical Timeline of Mobile Operating System Evolution and Key Technological Advancements. This figure presents a chronological timeline of the development of mobile operating systems from 1991 to 2019, along with significant technological milestones that contributed to their advancement. The timeline highlights the introduction of various mobile OSes. Additionally, it underscores critical innovations.
• Figure 5: Chronological Development of Desktop Operating Systems and Associated Technological Milestones. This timeline traces the historical progression of desktop operating systems from their inception to modern times, alongside significant technological advancements that influenced their evolution.