Microsoft is trying to position Windows 10 as a central platform of the industrial Internet of Things at this week’s Hannover Messe exhibition. In a new Windows blog post, the company explains how Windows 10 is going to help make intelligence the integral driver of ‘Industry 4.0’.
Central to that effort is the Universal Windows 10 Platform, which allows a wide range of devices to run the same essential application, since building it on Windows 10 means it will be compatible with laptops, smartphones, and potentially various other devices. And in keeping with this universalist approach, the Windows team has also lately been keen to emphasize its support for the AllSeen Alliance’s AllJoyn software, which is helping to ensure interoperability between IoT devices.
Windows is also working with a number of partner companies outside of the traditional IT space to help pioneer new IoT concepts through Windows 10 integration. It’s working with automotive engineering specialist IAV to bring Windows 10 to smart car dashboards, and with EnBW spinoff SM!GHT to develop smart streetlights that offer WiFi, electric car charging outlets, and other special features. Meanwhile, fridge maker Liebherr Group is developing smart refrigerators for pharmaceutical applications using Windows software, and ZF Services is using Windows technology to develop fleet logistics solutions.
With these announcements, it appears that Microsoft is working hard to get a solid footing in the burgeoning Internet of Things and particularly the industrial IoT, and is try to leverage the versatility and universality of its Windows software to full advantage.
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