14 DAY TRIAL // The componentized and embedded flavor of Windows 7 has been released to manufacturing, just a little over six months since the fully fledged Windows client’s GA, and nine months after it hit RTM. As announced previously, Windows Embedded Standard 7 was launched at the Embedded Systems Conference (ESC) Silicon Valley, on April 27th, 2010. With the latest iteration of the Windows Embedded platform, Microsoft is introducing Windows 7-specific technologies to device manufacturers.
Unlike the Windows 7 client, the successor of Windows Embedded 2009 is available only to original equipment manufacturers, and not to the public. OEMs are free to take advantage of the customizable and componentized form in order to build a variety of embedded devices including thin clients, digital signage and industrial controls, but also even set-top boxes (STBs), connected media devices (CMDs), and TVs. Windows Embedded Standard 7 brings to the table Windows Media Center, Windows Touch and power management APIs.
“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 to differentiate through rich, immersive user experiences and streamlined connectivity,” Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business Unit at Microsoft, revealed. “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.”
Customers that have followed the evolution of Windows Embedded already know that Windows Embedded Standard 7 was developed under the codename Quebec project. Initially, Microsoft had planned for the next version of Windows Embedded to be labeled Windows Embedded Standard 2011. However, the Redmond company had a change of heart earlier this year, and opted for the Windows Embedded Standard 7 as the official brand for codename Quebec. The software giant made no secret out of the fact that the new moniker was designed to emphasize the connection between Windows 7 and the new release of Windows Embedded.