Microsoft Corp. has announced a preview release of its Windows 7-based Windows Embedded Standard 2011 platform, commonly used in self-service and kiosk applications. The preview is publicly available for download here.
According to a news release from Microsoft, the latest version of the Windows Embedded platform possesses many of the same features and functionality of the Windows 7 operating system and can be customized to meet the specific needs of OEMs and technology developers.
Instead of investing in platform development, Windows Embedded Standard 2011 allows OEMs to choose only the components they need to tailor the platform to meet the unique requirements of their device. Familiar, easy-to-use development tools and embedded-enabling features help to further reduce development costs and increase speed-to-market for thin-client, point-of-service, kiosk, medical, multifunction printers and other devices.
Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft, says the just-announced community technology preview, or CTP, will allow customers to provide feedback on the product before its general release, expected in the second half of 2010:
To meet the demand for improved user experiences and connectivity among today's rapidly growing categories of specialized devices, Microsoft has strategically planned the release of Windows 7-based technologies to OEMs in the embedded marketplace. The availability of the Windows Embedded Standard 2011 CTP empowers our worldwide ecosystem of OEMs, partners and developers to take advantage of the next-generation platform's enhanced Windows 7-based features and provide feedback prior to its general release to manufacturing. We encourage the embedded community to take full advantage of the CTP's availability and join in our excitement as we look ahead to the future availability of Windows Embedded platforms incorporating Windows 7 technology.
Prior to the platform's general release next year, Microsoft will make available a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist certification, preparation kit and training courseware, as well as a series of five free webinars that will explore the enhanced features and capabilities of Windows Embedded Standard 2011. Webinar participants can register here.
