VIA Supports Windows 7-Based Windows Embedded Standard 2011

Since early this year, when Microsoft first announced the debut of its next-generation Windows 7 operating system in Beta stage, there have been speculations regarding the hardware support of the much-anticipated OS. One of the most interesting rumors claimed that Microsoft would roll out a version of its new Windows 7 OS, to support the ARM processor microarchitecture, which would consequently provide OEMs with a choice for building new computer system designs, featuring an ARM processor and the much-anticipated OS. On that note, VIA Technologies has announced today that it will support the Windows Embedded Standard 2011 across its range of processor platforms.

“Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will breathe new life into the next-generation of VIA-powered specialized devices,” said Daniel Wu, vice president, VIA Embedded Platform Division, VIA Technologies, Inc. “Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will extend the Windows user experience to specialized devices and provide enhanced functionality, networking capabilities, improved security and reliability to a range of embedded segments.”

VIA makes its own x86 processor platforms, which are generally designed for small-sized, ultraportable computer systems that deliver a reduced power consumption and better pricing, when compared to competitive products. The newly announced support for the Windows 7-based Embedded Standard 2011 can only benefit OEMs, which will have the opportunity to design various computer systems powered by VIA's processors.

“Microsoft Windows Embedded is happy to continue our work with long-term partner VIA to develop innovative technologies that meet the needs of embedded developers,” said John Boladian, marketing director, Windows Embedded, Asia Pacific & Greater China, Microsoft. “We look forward to extending the Windows 7 user experience to VIA-powered embedded devices. The use of Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will reduce platform development costs, but also meet the demand for enhanced functionalities, improved user experiences and connectivity among today's rapidly growing specialized devices.”

Announced at the beginning of September, this year, the new Windows Embedded Standard 2011 has been designed for 64-bit processors and is focused on enabling support for Windows Aero user interface, Windows Presentation Foundation, Windows Touch (including multi-gesture touch interfaces and context-aware applications) and Windows Flip 3D navigation.