NRF: Microsoft DS Platform

Microsoft have announced a strategic relationship with Intel today at NRF to offer a platform optimised for the digital signage industry.

The Windows 7-based Windows Embedded Standard 2011 operating system operated by 2010 Intel Core microarchitecture is optimised to address the digital signage market’s requirements for a streamlined, high-performance, reliable solution.

At NRF, Microsoft (booth 836) will show the Intel digital signage proof of concept based on Windows Embedded Standard 2011. The proof of concept aims to demonstrate ways in which OEMs can leverage the optimised digital signage platform to deliver user experiences featuring dual HD video streams on two separate displays, anonymous video analytics that recognise gender, and multitouch user interaction.

Highlights of the optimised platform include:

Rich immersive user experience, including panning and zoom, touch and gesture input to improve web browsing and the overall user experience which can be delivered out of the box
Video analytics that advertisers can use to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns through built-in camera technology, which analyses users’ physical attributes and then generates tailored advertising content
Remote deployment and management to minimise on-site maintenance, updates and repairs, thus delivering added value through lower total cost of ownership
Power management with conditional user interfaces to react to the environment so that devices can be made more green

The companies are currently identifying potential targeted go-to-market initiatives to help the digital signage market that encompasses numerous, and sometimes non-standards-based, platforms. As part of this effort, Microsoft and Intel’s embedded divisions are planning to implement partner training programmes and joint sales and marketing efforts to assist in alleviating industry challenges.

Kevin Dallas, general manager of the Windows Embedded Business Unit at Microsoft, explains, “We are excited about the flexibility offered through the optimised Windows Embedded and Intel processor-based platform.

“The optimized platform simplifies development, helping to lower the total cost of ownership. It enables digital signage device-makers to focus on creating rich, connected user experiences that can be managed remotely and deployed anywhere from quick service restaurants and airports to hotels, cruise ships and retail stores.”

Joe Jensen, general manager of the Embedded Computing Division at Intel, added, “Developing digital signage platforms that will break down silos of proprietary solutions and enable faster time to market and greater return on investment is a foundational pillar of our overall embedded market strategy.

“We look forward to working with industry leaders such as Microsoft to create new design opportunities for innovative device-makers and partners, while giving them the tools and technologies they need to create smarter, interactive retail customer experiences.”

Dusty Lutz, general manager of NCR Netkey commented, “The industry-leading features and functionality enabled through Microsoft and Intel technology allow us to quickly build the cutting-edge digital signage and self-service applications our customers demand to reach consumers in a more personalized and compelling manner. This optimized platform provides us with streamlined access to superior technology.”

“The Microsoft and Intel technology showcased in HP’s digital signage solution proof of concept at NRF highlights the potential for businesses to simply and dynamically interact with their key audiences, delivering exceptional user experiences through content that is more compelling and relevant than ever before,” said Roberto Moctezuma, vice president and general manager of Desktop Solutions at HP.

The optimised digital signage platform built on the Windows 7-based, Windows Embedded Standard 2011 operating system and powered by the Intel Core i7 processor is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2010.