Microsoft Launches Windows CE .NET
Embedded developers have reason to rejoice, as Microsoft today released the final version of Windows CE .NET after nine months of beta testing. Microsoft chairman and chief software architect Bill Gates made the official announcement in his keynote address at CES Monday, showcasing devices using the new operating system.
“Windows CE .NET delivers the next-generation embedded platform, and the programs and services announced today will enable developers to bring smart Windows Powered devices to market even more quickly,” Gates said.
The update to Windows CE, formerly code-named 'Talisker', builds upon Microsoft's .NET vision and includes a technology preview of the .NET Compact Framework. With the framework, Microsoft aims to bridge the gap between desktop and thin-client development. Visual Studio .NET developers will now be able to build applications for CE-based devices using new Smart Device Extensions.
Networking improvements in Windows CE .NET include a 50 percent speed increase and support for Bluetooth and 802.11 wireless technologies with zero configuration. A device running CE .NET will be able to "seamlessly roam from one wireless network to another," Microsoft Product Manager Megan Kidd told BetaNews.
Internet Explorer 5.5, Windows Media 8, and DirectX 8 are included as well. The OS will additionally support a customizable user interface, user profiles, multiple displays and ClearType font rendering.
To jumpstart development on the new platform, Microsoft had made available free Evaluation and Emulation editions of Windows CE .NET. Until March 30, the full version may be purchased for the promotional price of $995 USD.
The Windows CE Shared Source License has also been expanded for noncommercial purposes. According to Microsoft, "In Windows CE 3.0, Microsoft provided source access for more than half a million lines of code. In Windows CE .NET, Microsoft has tripled that by including many new components such as HTTP Web server, Microsoft message queuing, USB, Bluetooth and other wireless network drivers, and SOAP and uPNP protocol implementations."