Windows Embedded

Definition - What does Windows Embedded mean?

Windows Embedded is a set of technologies that builds on the popularity of Microsoft’s conventional Windows operating systems for personal computers. A Windows Embedded OS brings the same kinds of interface design and functionality to a handheld device or other machine that regular Windows operating systems bring to desktop and laptop computers.

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Techopedia explains Windows Embedded

Throughout the emergence of personal computers as more sophisticated devices, the Microsoft Windows operating system has become the most popular choice for "PC" computers, other than available open-source operating systems. Windows has evolved through many versions, including pre-millennial versions named for their respective eras, such as Windows 97 and Windows 2000, as well as newer options like Windows XP and Windows 7.

Now, Microsoft is offering Windows Embedded operating systems for various other setups. One is the Windows Embedded Handheld operating system for smartphones and handheld devices. Another Windows Embedded system gets installed in point of service (POS) hardware networks for retailers. All of these designs bring Windows elements to new kinds of devices that are getting more use in today’s tech world, where computers are looking more and more like bulky dinosaurs.