Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of the latest update to Windows� CE .NET, version 4.1, a robust, real-time embedded operating system for building the next generation of mobile and small-footprint devices. The update enhances Windows CE .NET with new features such as IPv6, the latest networking technology; Speech API (SAPI) 5.0; support for viewing popular file formats including Microsoft� Word, PowerPoint�, Excel and Adobe Acrobat; and performance improvements to Web browsing, remote display protocol (RDP) and Windows Media (TM) Technologies. Hitachi Ltd., NEC Infrontia Corp., Samsung Information Systems America and ViewSonic Corp., as well as many other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), are developing devices based on the update to Windows CE .NET as part of the Joint Development Program. Microsoft also highlighted its collaboration with Lancaster University in Lancaster, England, which has resulted in Lancaster's use of Windows CE .NET source code in its curriculum and development of the new IPv6 implementation released today.

"Windows CE .NET continues to be the platform of choice for building 'smart,' connected mobile devices that require rich applications and services. This update underscores our commitment to quickly deliver the latest technologies to our Windows Embedded customers," said Todd Warren, general manager of the Embedded and Appliance Platforms Group at Microsoft. "We're excited to see strong momentum in the embedded marketplace with rapid adoption by top OEM customers of Windows CE .NET, with many customers cutting their development time in half. Moreover, our collaboration with Lancaster University is a great example of growing interest in Windows Embedded platforms within the academic community."