Microsoft Releases Preview of Windows Embedded 8

Microsoft has released information about their upcoming embedded edition of Windows 8, and also a preview version of the OS.

In addition to the versions of Windows available to consumers, that come either pre-installed on devices or available on disks or online to buy and install, Microsoft also produces editions of Windows for use on devices such as POS computers and kiosks.

“Faced with the explosion of business data, enterprises are looking for better alternatives to help them unlock the information inside. Microsoft’s broad set of technologies and products make it uniquely qualified to help address this problem. We’re working with our partners to create solutions that extend across the full breadth of Microsoft technologies and provide customers with the clarity they need to harness big data.”

Kevin Dallas, Windows Embedded General Manager
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These editions of Windows allow more flexibility for those deploying them, giving more control over the Windows experience than the standard editions.

The new editions announced include:

• Windows Embedded 8 Standard
  A modular version of Windows with added features for industry devices
• Windows Embedded 8 Pro
  The full Windows 8 experience for embedded devices
• Windows Embedded 8 Industry
  A replacement for Windows Embedded POSReady intended to cater to more than just POS.The system requirements are unchanged compared to Windows 7, but with the right hardware Windows Embedded 8 does support multitouch.

Also announced is Windows Embedded 8 Handheld, which is based on Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 technology, for use on “Enterprise Handheld Devices”.

Microsoft intends to ship the final releases in the first half of 2013, but the a preview release is already available for evaluation.