Microsoft confirmed today that it has released the Windows 7-based Windows Embedded Standard 2011 as a Community Technology Preview (CTP).
"The availability of the Windows Embedded Standard 2011 CTP empowers our worldwide ecosystem of OEMs, partners and developers to take advantage of the next-generation platform"s enhanced Windows 7-based features and provide feedback prior to its general release to manufacturing. We encourage the embedded community to take full advantage of the CTP"s availability and join in our excitement as we look ahead to the future availability of Windows Embedded platforms incorporating Windows 7 technologies" said Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft.
Windows Embedded typically runs on thin-client, point-of-service (POS), kiosk, medical, multifunction printers and other devices. As Embedded 2011 is based on Windows 7 it includes Internet Explorer 8, Windows Media Player 12, Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) 7.0 and Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5. Embedded 2011 also supports 64-bit CPUs, Windows Aero user interface, Windows Presentation Foundation, Windows Touch (multigesture touch interfaces and context-aware applications) and Windows Flip 3D navigation.
Microsoft hopes OEMs will be able to build "green" Embedded machines thanks to the smart power management APIs for developers to build applications that can improve CPU idle time and reduce power consumption in Embedded 2011.
If you"re interested in testing a copy then it"s available on Microsoft"s Connect site.