Microsoft Launches First Embedded Operating System for Portable Navigation Devices

[Kirmiac]

Windows Embedded NavReady 2009, Microsoft’s first embedded operating system designed specifically for handheld portable navigation devices (PNDs). Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 will provide innovative technologies to develop PNDs that will easily connect to online services, mobile phones using Bluetooth, Windows-based PCs and the Internet.

Features:

Live Search - Internet-based Live Search will be available on devices to make search easier.

Bluetooth Technology - PND devices will be used as a hands-free device to make phone calls or data connections when the device is paired with a compatible phone enabled with Bluetooth. With Bluetooth Technology users can enjoy features like Hands Free, Audio and Video Remote Control, Dial Up Networking, Phone Book Access, Advanced Audio Distribution.

MSN Direct - Provides users with up-to-date information about current traffic conditions and fuel prices, which will enhance users travel experience.

Windows SideShow - helps enable the PND as a secondary display screen for many Windows Vista-based computers.

“As a leading designer and manufacturer of portable navigation devices we have relied on Windows Embedded CE as a proven real-time operating system for our Mio product line,” said Samuel Wang, president of Mio Technology Corp. “With the launch of Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 and the introduction of features including Live Search, MSN Direct and Bluetooth capabilities, we are looking forward to bringing our next-generation PNDs to market with a richer end-user experience and in a reduced timeframe.”

With the addition of the Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 solution, Windows Embedded now presents two device category-specific offerings: Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 and Windows Embedded POSReady. Windows Embedded POSReady, the next generation of Windows Embedded for Point of Service, is scheduled to ship in 2009.

* Works with Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Enterprise, Windows Vista Business and Windows Vista Ultimate.

To download the Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 technologies:

Windows Embedded NavReady 2009

[Sawan123]

Do not forget that Google has a large base of geolocation services as Google Maps or Google Earth, which will integrate precisely in Android, but most likely not even try to outshine Microsoft in the segment of GPS devices, I think the strategy of the search engine company is based on the idea that in a future medium to long term, the winners will be the devices mobile phones that will combine several features, among which are the GPS, something that happens today in day but is accentuated in the future envisioned by Google.