Communications

NavReady 2009 release shows the way

19 June 2008

Microsoft has released Windows Embedded NavReady 2009, the company’s first embedded operating system designed specifically for OEMs building handheld portable navigation devices (PNDs).

The solution is based on Windows Embedded CE and is designed to help developers and OEMs quickly bring to market smart, connected, service-oriented PNDs that easily connect to online services, mobile phones using Bluetooth, Windows-based PCs and the Internet.

“As demand for personal navigation devices continues to increase, and existing owners look to upgrade from their original devices, original equipment manufacturers must continue to innovate and enhance their products with features that will attract a variety of users,” said Chris Jones, vice president analyst group Canalys. “Personal navigation solutions will increasingly become connected, which will open up new opportunities to add value through the delivery of dynamic information and location-based services. But this is a highly competitive market and it is important that businesses like Windows Embedded help OEMs and others bring these rich devices to market quickly and efficiently.”

Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 features Live Search functionality. This delivers OEMs and partners key elements enabling Internet-based Live Search on devices to find up-to-date points of interest similar to the ones provided by the Live Search Maps service.

The product’s Bluetooth technologies enable OEMs to provide rich, hands-free scenarios to users with the following profiles: hands free, pairing service, phone book access, advanced audio distribution, audio and video remote control, dial up networking and Bluetooth connection manager. Users will be able to use their PND device as a hands-free device to make phone calls or data connections when the device is paired with a compatible phone enabled with Bluetooth.

In addition, OEMs can incorporate MSN Direct technologies to reduce users’ commute time while enhancing the travel experience by providing up-to-date information such as traffic alerts and fuel prices.

“Our commitment to this segment has always been about providing the platform and tools that give our OEM partners the most innovative technologies while reducing the complexity of development,” said Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft. “We firmly believe the release of Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 helps us fulfil this promise by taking the PND experience to the next level. It allows device-makers and solution providers to focus on innovation while bringing smart, connected, service-oriented portable navigation devices to market.”

To download the Windows Embedded NavReady 2009 technologies visit the dedicated site.