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By Mel Duvall
Microsoft has released Windows Embedded Standard 7 to manufacturers, essentially allowing device manufacturers to embed Windows 7-based components in their products.
Manufacturers will be able to take advantage of the embedded software in a wide range of areas, including digital signage, thin clients and industrial controls for the enterprise, and set-top boxes, connected media services and TVs for consumers.
Industry analyst firm Strategy Analytics estimates the market for devices using the embedded software could experience annual growth of more than 50 percent through 2014, reaching 360 million units. It could find a home in everything from digital video recorders to flat panel TVs.
“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,” Kevin Dallas, general manager of Microsoft’s embedded business unit, said in a statement.
The software was originally named Quebec during development and was announced in September 2009 during a technology preview to device manufactures. Microsoft says the platform also includes a number of additional features to drive rich user experiences, including multi-gesture touch interfaces and context-aware applications with Windows Touch. It also features the ability to develop “green” products with smart power management application programming interfaces.
Entertainment service providers, such as cable, telecommunications and satellite operators will be able to leverage devices embedded with the software to deliver incremental services to consumers. Similarly, consumers will be able to use embedded devices to merge multimedia content from disparate sources, such as Internet and broadcast TV, social media portals and personal libraries of photos, music and videos.
In a blog on the embedded software, Microsoft said it is working with a number of manufacturers who are expected to bring devices to market in the coming months. “We’re working closely with some early adopters of Windows Embedded Standard 7 and are excited about the phenomenal development it enables,” wrote Steve Guggenheimer, VP of Microsoft’s original equipment manufacturer division.
On the enterprise front, Guggenheimer said Microsoft worked with Siemens to install Windows Embedded operating systems in a proof of concept on its factory production line, in such areas as data collecting sensors and smart devices. He said Microsoft has also been working with Intel to create a Windows-based digital signage platform for the retail and hospitality market.
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