Microsoft has recently announced the availability of two versions of Windows 8 for embedded systems: the Standard and Pro editions.
In speaking of the benefits that these editions offer in general, Kevin Dallas, general manager of Windows Embedded, released a statement, which read, “Edge devices connected and working in unison with an enterprise’s broader IT infrastructure unleash the potential of the Internet of Things by yielding the actionable data and operational intelligence that drive businesses forward.”
So, what is the difference between the Standard and Pro editions?
The Pro edition is a full version of Windows 8 with a few additions that will suit the needs of embedded device manufacturers while the Standard edition will allow its users to remove the parts of Windows 8 that they do not need. Both editions can remove parts of the Windows 8 not-Metro interface can be partially removed.
Experts believe that Microsoft’s sales pitch for the embedded market is based on the ability of Windows 8 to communicate with SQL Server and Azure to collect data from a number of devices as well as offer developers the option of using Visual Studio to create apps.
What remains to be seen is if the market does buy into the benefits of this product offering, considering the fact that there is a limit to how ‘smart’ a machine needs to be even if everyone does want to capture as much data as possible.
By April this year, Microsoft also plans to release a Windows Industry edition, which has been designed keeping in mind, point-of-sale devices and other specialized hardware.