Microsoft has released the general availability of the Windows Embedded 8 family of operating systems via its website, targeting enterprises and OEMs.

Extending Windows 8 technologies to a spectrum of edge devices, Microsoft says Windows Embedded 8 helps enterprises capitalise on the Internet of Things with the platform to capture, analyse and act on valuable data across IT infrastructures.

“Edge devices connected and working in unison with an enterprise’s broader IT infrastructure unleash the potential of the Internet of Things by yielding the actionable data and operational intelligence that drive businesses forward,” said Kevin Dallas, GM, Windows Embedded at Microsoft.

“From the rich, familiar experience of Windows to integrated management, analytics and cloud platforms, Windows Embedded 8 coupled with the full breadth of Microsoft technologies for intelligent systems helps enterprises gain lasting competitive advantages in retail, manufacturing, healthcare and a variety of industries.”

Businesses will also have the ability to add or buy enterprise-specific functionality for their Windows Embedded 8-based solutions through licensing options Microsoft will make available in July.

Windows Embedded 8 Industry, which targets retail point-of-service (POS) solutions and other scenarios across manufacturing and healthcare that require fixed experiences with enhanced lockdown, branding and the other benefits of Windows Embedded 8, will also be available the week of April 1.

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