x86 is a binary artifact instruction set, and software is written in higher level languages that can be recompiled. CUDA is a language that can target multiple

x86 is a binary artifact instruction set, and software is written in higher level languages that can be recompiled. CUDA is a language that can target multiple ISAs. Microsoft and apple had incentive to keep options open to migrate off x86 and give a lot of support to their users doing so, and provide backwards compatibility in form of emulation etc. NVidia does this even better, users don't even notice when they are switching GPU ISAs. In principle it's easy to recompile CPU side stuff too, but there are 3rd party component ecosystems, other dependency quirks, familiarity with the platform, familiar well known performance properties, sharing the same questions and answers on stackoverflow, etc. The lock-in network effect can be strong even if its individual contributing factors I agree it's less locked in than eg Intel had it in the heyday. Ultimately we'll find out when the competition eventually shows up with reasons to consider switching.