14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has made available for download a new Windows 7-based operating system tailored to the needs of companies in the retail and hospitality markets.
The community technology preview (CTP) for Windows Embedded POSReady 7 has been released, allowing early adopters to take the next generation of POSReady out for a spin.
The Redmond company is looking for OEMs, ISVs, developers and retailers to download the Windows Embedded POSReady 7 CTP bits and start test driving the platform as soon as possible, in order to contribute with feedback to the development process.
“Today’s announcement from Microsoft represents a critical advancement within the retail and hospitality industry by illustrating our ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the rich ecosystem of developers, OEMs and retailers who want access to the latest Windows 7-based technologies,” revealed John Doyle, group product manager for Windows Embedded at Microsoft.
“In an ever-growing connected society, the retail and hospitality industries need cutting-edge technologies that are aimed at improving customer service and relationship-building, growing brand awareness, and optimizing productivity.
“With Windows Embedded POSReady 7, we’re aiming to address these demands and continue to make strides reflecting the evolving marketplace.”
Windows Embedded POSReady 7 is designed as the successor to Windows Embedded POSReady 2009, and in this regard, existing POSReady customers will notice that Microsoft introduced a range of enhancements.
The software giant provided a list of highlights set up to illustrate the evolution of Windows Embedded POSReady, which I included at the bottom of this article.
Companies interested in test driving Windows Embedded POSReady 7 CTP need a valid Windows Live ID which will permit them to sign into Microsoft Connect. It’s here where they’ll find the Windows Embedded POSReady 7 CTP testing program which they’ll need to join.
Windows Embedded POSReady 7’s new features:
“• Support for Windows Touch multi-gesture touch interfaces to provide employees with intuitive graphics while maintaining a simple and fast approach to transaction processes — meaning a better overall experience for customers looking to speed through long checkout lines
• Internet Explorer 8 protected mode and phishing filter for increased security and Web connectivity
• Windows Media Player 12 for a seamless multimedia experience on POS devices
• AppLocker, a simple and flexible mechanism that allows administrators to specify exactly what is allowed to run on their POS devices
• BitLocker, BitLocker To Go and Encrypting File System (EFS) for increased encryption of internal hard disks, local folders, and external thumb drives and hard disks, giving IT administrators greater protection of highly important data from unauthorized users or external attackers,” Microsoft stated.