14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft and Intel are working together on a solution the two companies are advertising as the future of digital signage. The National Retail Federation (NRF) Annual Convention & Expo acted as the stage where the two companies demonstrated the Intel Intelligent Digital Sign Proof of Concept. According to the software giant, the Intel Intelligent Digital Sign PoC is the result of a strategic collaboration inked with Intel. Essentially, the duo is offering what it refers to as a platform optimized for the digital signage industry. Of course, the product is nothing more than a proof of concept at this point in time. However, its potential is undeniable.
Based on the 2010 Intel CoreTM microarchitecture, the platform also features Windows Embedded Standard 2011 and operating system built as the componentized version of Windows 7 for the embedded market. “We are excited about the flexibility offered through the optimized Windows Embedded and Intel processor-based platform,” noted Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business Unit at Microsoft.
The Intel Intelligent Digital Sign PoC is capable of offering customers a high degree of interaction. In this regard, users will be able not only to choose the advertisements that are displayed by the product, but also have digital coupons transferred to their mobile phones. The PoC comes equipped with an LCD screen as well as an 80 inch holographic glass, both of which are touch-enabled. Touch allows end users to be in control of their experience and catalyze deeper engagement, an Intel representative explained.
“The optimized platform simplifies development, helping to lower the total cost of ownership. It enables digital signage device-makers to focus on creating rich, connected user experiences that can be managed remotely and deployed anywhere from quick service restaurants and airports to hotels, cruise ships and retail stores,” Dallas added.
The promise from Microsoft and Intel is that the Intel Intelligent Digital Sign with Windows Embedded Standard 2011 will be able to deliver rich immersive user experiences, video analytics capabilities, remote deployment and management functionality and power management. The two companies expect the optimized digital signage platform they are building together to be available to customers in the second quarter of 2010.
“Developing digital signage platforms that will break down silos of proprietary solutions and enable faster time to market and greater return on investment is a foundational pillar of our overall embedded market strategy,” stated Joe Jensen, general manager of the Embedded Computing Division at Intel. “We look forward to working with industry leaders such as Microsoft to create new design opportunities for innovative device-makers and partners, while giving them the tools and technologies they need to create smarter, interactive retail customer experiences.”