Linux-based software platforms are much more flexible, and some Android applications will either work instantaneously or can be easily recompiled to work with 64-bit ARM processors.

While ARM is the undisputed leader in the smartphone and tablet markets, it is also looking to enter the PC and server markets dominated by x86 processors. ARM may offer better performance with respect to power consumption, but the 64-bit processors may not immediately match up with Intel's chips on raw performance, said Insight 64's Brookwood.

"Intel has spent a lifetime building the fastest chips. ARM is not likely to challenge that soon," Brookwood said.