Microsoft has laid out a new roadmap for the development of Windows Embedded at the Embedded Systems Conference Silicon Valley 2008. The Embedded roadmap outlines the "renaming of its family of products and plans for new solutions in key device categories". Kevin Dallaes, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business, explains: "With today's strategic road map announcement, our aim is to present the evolving Windows Embedded product family in an intuitive fashion, making it easier for our customers to choose the right platforms and tools for their needs."
The new names are as follows (taken from the press release):
- Windows Embedded Standard. The next generation of Windows XP Embedded. The next product release is currently forecast for 2008.
- Windows Embedded Compact. The next generation of Windows Embedded CE. The next product release is currently forecast for 2009.
- Windows Embedded Enterprise. A fully application-compatible embedded operating system that over time will gain a broader set of embedded enabling features. Today this product group is composed of Windows Vista and Windows XP for Embedded Systems and is licensed exclusively for embedded device development.
- Windows Embedded POSReady [ed. note: no comment.]. The next generation of Windows Embedded for Point of Service. The next product release is currently forecast for 2009.
Windows Embedded Standard will be the first release under the new naming strategy, with a release date set for June 3rd, during Tech-Ed North America.
In addition, Microsoft also launched a certification program for Windows Embedded CE 6.0, the first certification program for Windows Embedded. The certification exam will be available on May 5th, 2008. The preparation guide is already available.
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