Thanks to Aaron on the e-mail for the heads up on this story.
Microsoft Corp. Wednesday raised the curtain on Windows XP Embedded, a version of its new operating system intended for devices like gaming systems, self-service kiosks, ATMs and retail point-of-sale devices.
The release comes a month after the launch of the new operating system. Microsoft had promised to deliver it within 90 days.
Windows XP Embedded is based on the same core features as Windows XP Professional, and was developed alongside that operating system. It is broken into about 10,000 components, from which embedded developers can utilize prebuilt configurations or put together their own.
Among the first customers for the embedded OS are Bally Gaming and Systems, which plans to use Windows XP Embedded for slot machines; National Semiconductor Corp.; and NCR Corp., which will utilize the OS in next-generation ATMs.
Microsoft said Windows XP Embedded supports capabilities such as headless support and flexible boot and storage options. It includes all new developer tools and allows for a range of footprints from a 4.8 MB minimum configuration, through to 70 MB for the full Win32 API set with the user interface, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0, Windows Media Player 8.0, Terminal Server client, USB support and SNMP support. It allows for a basic Win32 system at 14 MB, and a basic Win32 system with security infrastructure at 25 MB.