Microsoft Corp. has laid out the next phase in its strategy for the Windows Embedded Business, providing a road map outlining the renaming of its product family and plans for new solutions in key device categories. The solutions, which will be offered under the Windows Embedded Ready name, will ship as preconfigured toolkits providing in-demand market-specific features that allow device makers to build and ship next-generation smart, connected, service-oriented devices quickly.
The first product release under the new strategy will be Windows Embedded Standard, the next generation of Windows XP Embedded. It will launch simultaneously at Tech•Ed North America and through a global webcast event on June 3. All presently available Windows Embedded products will be marketed under their current names until their next scheduled product release and will remain available for purchase in line with the standard Microsoft Support Lifecycle policy. The Windows Embedded Ready product line for key device categories will include the next generation of Windows Embedded Point of Service, Windows Embedded POSReady.
Other products in the line include Windows Embedded Compact, the next generation of Windows Embedded CE, forecast for 2009, and Windows Embedded Enterprise, a fully application-compatible embedded OS that over time will gain a broader set of embedded enabling features.
Microsoft also announced the establishment of Windows Embedded CE 6.0 Certification, the first certification included in the Microsoft Certification Program for the Windows Embedded product family. A key element of the Windows Embedded business strategy, the certification will provide a common reference point on the skills and technical expertise that Microsoft recommends for all Windows Embedded CE 6.0 developers.
Microsoft Corp
www.microsoft.com