Microsoft Offers Embedded POS OS

By Greg McNevin

January 15, 2009: Microsoft has announced a new, embedded version of Windows aimed specifically at point of sale (POS) systems such as cash registers, ATMs and other automated service systems.

Announced at this years National Retail Federation Annual Convention & Expo in the US, Microsoft says that Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 includes updates in three key areas, namely flexibility, connectivity and reliability/familiarity.

Flexibility because the OS can be customised to specific hardware requirements, connectivity due to built-in networking, standards-based plug-and-play, and support of a wider range of retail software and peripherals, and lastly reliability/familiarity due to its support of Microsoft’s .NET Framework 3.5, Silverlight, SQL Server Express and more.

“The Windows Embedded team is committed to providing our partners and customers with an innovative POS operating system that enhances POS function and enables retailers to offer a differentiated user experience,” said Microsoft’s senior director of Windows Embedded Marketing, Ilya Bukshteyn, in a statement.

“Using familiar Windows technologies, Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 enables a connected, rich experience at the checkout counter, which leads to meeting and exceeding shopper expectations and driving customer loyalty.”

A trial version of Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 is available now.

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