Microsoft Corp. kicked off the second annual Windows� Embedded Developers Conference today with a keynote address by Jim Allchin, group vice president of the company�s Platforms Division, announcing the availability of Windows XP Embedded. Windows XP Embedded, the componentized version of the Windows XP operating system, enables rapid development of the most reliable and full-featured connected devices including retail point-of-sale devices, thin clients, gaming systems, self-service kiosks, industrial automation, residential gateways, and advanced set-top boxes. In addition, Microsoft announced a free* evaluation kit, as well as a 90-day promotional price of $995 (U.S.) (estimated retail price) for the Windows XP Embedded tool suite, to enable embedded developers to evaluate and build devices quickly and economically. Microsoft also announced new Windows XP Embedded training curriculum, a two-day hands-on course that provides in-depth Windows XP Embedded training for embedded developers from more than seven certified training companies worldwide. "We committed to providing the latest Windows technologies to our embedded customers within 90 days of the general availability of Windows XP, and we are excited to launch Windows XP Embedded ahead of that commitment, within 35 days," Allchin said. "With our free evaluation kit, promotional tools pricing, and in-depth training curriculum, there�s no better time for embedded developers to start building their next-generation, smart, connected devices."