Microsoft has introduced Windows Embedded CE, the newest operating system for consumer gadgets that include media players, navigation systems, digital picture frames and digital televisions.
Windows Embedded is not similar to Android and other dialects of Linux, because it has a license which is fee charged by Microsoft for every device shipped with the operating system, usually US$3-15 in comply with the volume.
Microsoft said this fee is worth it because it costs the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) less to design software for Windows Embedded than for other operating systems.
The improvements to Windows Embedded are meant to facilitate device makers to design more attractive user interfaces. Particularly, they allow designers to use existing Microsoft tools like Expressions Web design software and Visual Studio programming environment, to make the menus, buttons and other features of a gadgets.
Android is promoted for cellphones and laptop computers, but Windows Embedded is not. There is Windows Mobile OS for phones. And the company wants netbooks to run the Windows 7 PC operating system, albeit with a cheaper limited version. The full version of Windows is meant only for processors using the X86 architecture. Windows Embedded can also run on other chips, including the ARM processor design used in many cellphones.
Microsoft also said that it was working on a future version that would make it easier to link gadgets to Internet-based services, like social networks. It already has a special version meant for GPS navigation systems, with links to Microsoft’s Web search service.
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