The latest Windows operating system is available for download as of June 16, 2008. And no, it's not a new release of Windows 7, nor the first taste of Windows 7 Server. In fact, it has nothing to do with the client and server products, or with Windows for mobile phones. It simply is a new release under the Windows Embedded brand umbrella. Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 is a platform designed specifically for handheld portable navigation devices. According to Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft, Windows Embedded is already a household name with the original equipment manufacturers producing PNDs.

"Windows Embedded powers many of the portable navigation devices in the marketplace," Dallas stated. In this context, Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 takes Microsoft's offerings one step further by delivering a platform that can bridge PNDs with Windows computers, and mobile phones via Bluetooth, and can even allow users to connect to the Internet.

"Our commitment to this segment has always been about providing the platform and tools that give our OEM partners the most innovative technologies while reducing the complexity of development. We firmly believe the release of Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 helps us fulfill this promise by taking the PND experience to the next level. Adopting Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 today will allow device-makers and solution providers to focus on innovation while bringing smart, connected, service-oriented portable navigation devices to market in time for the 2008 holiday retail season and beyond," Dallas added.

Chris Jones, Canalys vice president and principal analyst, indicated that PND manufacturers were under constant pressure to ensure the evolution of their devices in a market which was becoming increasingly connected and service-oriented. Based on Windows CE, Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 includes the following features: Windows Live, Bluetooth capabilities, MSN Direct and even Windows SideShow.

Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 can be downloaded from here.