Microsoft polishes its embedded OS

By Alun Williams

Posted on 1 Aug 2002 at 12:23

Microsoft updates its embedded operating system for small devices, Windows CE .NET.

Features new to Windows CE .Net version 4.1 - formerly codenamed 'Jameson' - include support for IPv6, improved speech recognition (Speech API 5.0) and the ability to view the Microsoft Office file formats, such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint, as well as Adobe's Acrobat.

Work has also been done on improving browsing capabilities, with the performance of its version of IE reportedly having been improved 15 per cent since Windows CE .Net launched in January 2002, and Windows Media video playback, reportedly improved by 20 per cent.

'Windows CE .Net continues to be the platform of choice for building smart, connected mobile devices that require rich applications and services,' believes Todd Warren, general manager of the Embedded and Appliance Platforms Group at Microsoft. 'This update underscores our commitment to quickly deliver the latest technologies to our Windows Embedded customers.'

More information on Windows CE .Net availability and licensing can be found on the Microsoft Web site.

Among the companies that have already rallied round the Windows CE .Net 4.1 banner are AMD and Via Technologies. AMD has announced support from its 'high performance and low power consumption' Alchemy processors (the Au1000, Au1100, and Au1500). Via Technologies - specialists in providing third-party embedded systems - has also announced full support with updated drivers.