Some days ago Microsoft shared with the world a detailed roadmap about its upcoming Windows Embedded products.
The most interesting update is that a new version of Windows Embedded Handheld is coming. Microsoft hasn't released a new version of this operating system since it delivered Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 (based on the Windows Mobile 6.5), back in July 2010. Windows Embedded 8 Handheld - about which "more information will be available in early 2013" - is going to be based on Windows Phone 8 technologies. This will be a product for the ruggedized/enterprise handheld device market.
The other Windows Embedded products:
- **Windows Embedded 8
Standard**, which is based on the Windows 8 core code. A release preview is available now; general availability is planned for March 2013.
- **Windows Embedded 8
Pro**, which also is based on the Windows 8 core. This is the new name for the product formerly known as Windows Embedded 8 Enterprise. General availability is scheduled for March 2013.
- **Windows Embedded 8
Industry** is the renamed Windows Embedded POSReady (with POS standing for "point of sale"). There will be both a community technology preview test build and details on timing coming at the beginning of 2013.
- **Windows Embedded Compact
2013** is the new name for the product that until now seemed destined to be known as Windows Embedded 8 Compact. Microsoft is acknowledging publicly that it will be generally available in the second quarter of 2013.
- **Windows Embedded 8
Automotive**. Microsoft is working with "preselected partners" on this product, which will be based on Windows 8 technologies.
For other details and official press release, visit the Microsoft News site.