Microsoft's block diagram (via Microsoft)
Apple may have a watch, but Microsoft is wasting no time in trying to dominate the world of computer innovation. The technology powerhouse announced that it’s joining the movement for the Internet of Things, resulting in both the increase in IoT investments and the soft launch of its Windows 10 IoT Core Insider Preview and new partnerships with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Intel’s Minnowboard Max and Hackster.IO.
Many companies have begun investing in IoT technologies, and Microsoft is no exception. at the Microsoft Convergence 2015 conference in March, the company announced that it would greatly increase investments in the technology, including offering both end-of-use products, IoT solutions for developers and an IoT version of Windows 10.
Regarding products, Windows expects to spend the next few years investing in a wide range of end-of-use products, including portable, consumer devices, gateways, robotics, electronic medical devices and more. The company also plans to add Cloud-based security technologies to its portfolio of business solutions, including machine-to-machine solutions for manufacturers and machine-to-Cloud software in partnership with Azure.
While Microsoft has big plans for the future of IoT, the vision closest to realization is its Windows 10 for IoT OS. The small-scale operating system is intended for developers, makers and businesses to be used as a platform for the creation of IoT devices and now its ready to be tested. Microsoft announced the launch of its Core Insider Preview for developers and makers relying on Raspberry Pi 2 and Minnowboard Max technologies.
The soft launch is an opportunity for potential future users to give useful feedback to Microsoft before the official release of Microsoft 10 IoS this upcoming summer. While this launch is meant for users relying on two main microcontroller supplies, the company intends to expand its partnership with Arduino and Hackster.IO.
Windows partnership with Arduino will result in the first “Arduino Certified” operating system. This can increase ease-of-use for Arduino-made products, as there will be a streamline way for developers to accomplish simple tasks, such as controlling hardware movement, software development and overall connectivity.
Microsoft’s partnership with Hackster.IO involves collaboration between the two companies on hackathons and the enhancement of Windows and Azure-based technologies. Similarly, the Windows partnership with Intel and Raspberry Pi involves increased compatibility between Windows software and Intel/Raspberry Pi chips to allow for a streamline software control and recreation.
Microsoft may not be known for creating the best end-of-use products for consumers, but it is one of the mostly widely used software providers of the 21st century. For this reason, the company’s strategy for making an imprint on the IoT market is ingenious. For once, its doing something right.
C
See more news at: