Redmond, Washington — Windows and 7 have now become synonymous name to reckon, and Redmond, Wash., software major Microsoft on Tuesday announced the release the first version of its Windows Embedded Standard 7, which allows manufacturers to utilize Windows 7-based components for the creation of specialized devices such as industry-specific handhelds.
Kevin Dallas, GM of the Windows Embedded Business Unit at Microsoft, addressing the attendees at the Embedded Systems Conference (ESC) Silicon Valley, stated that this newly launched embedded OS will comprise of Media Center as well as multi-gesture touch programs and context-sensitive applications with Windows Touch, and the ability to develop “green” solutions with smart power management APIs.
The Windows Embedded Standard 7 OS was first released in January, when both Intel and Microsoft worked together on a retail proof-of-concept interactive sign that could distinguish users by their physical attributes (a man or a woman) and interactive features such as panning and zoom, touch, and gesture input. The OS also supports remote management features, plus power management as well.
Dallas went on to describe procedures in which the new addition to the embedded OS market could help OEMs produce richer, funner experiences for their audience. That should translate, or could translate, into big bucks. “With the release of Windows Embedded Standard 7, Microsoft has furthered its commitment to the integration of Windows 7 technologies in the specialized consumer and enterprise device markets by providing OEMs with the latest innovative technologies,” Dallas, said in an April 27 statement.
Microsoft’s Kevin Dallas on Tuesday shows off an embedded version of Windows 7 designed to run on TVs, set-top boxes, and other devices. (Credit: Microsoft)
“Building on the strength of Windows for PCs and Windows for phones, we are upgrading our entire portfolio of platforms and technologies for the embedded market with Windows 7 technologies to better serve our partners and customers in the embedded space,” Steve Guggenheimer, corporate vice president of the OEM division of Microsoft, wrote in a blog post.
"The addition of the Windows Media Center feature in Windows Embedded Standard 7 is driving the set-top box, connected media device and TV markets by providing OEMs with opportunities to develop uniquely branded experiences and service providers with capabilities to explore additional revenue streams with unique content through a centralized media hub in the home."
Furthermore to televisions, STBs (set-top boxes) and CMDs (connected media devices), Microsoft intends for Windows Embedded Standard 7 to be used in thin clients, digital signage and industrial controls for the enterprise. A few companies, including Hewlett-Packard, YCD Multimedia and DT Research, have already begun issuing devices built on the platform.
Guggenheimer added, “This dynamic market is expected to reach more than 16 billion embedded devices this year and exceed 40 billion by 2020, according to Artemis Embedded Computing Initiative.”
Previously, Microsoft displayed the embedded software, which was code-named Quebec, at ESC Boston in September. At that point, Microsoft was calling it Windows Embedded Standard 2011.
Windows Embedded Standard 7 will be available for download at an as-yet-unannounced point within next few days; an e-mail alert for its release can be signed up for here.