So why is this notable? The current version of Windows Embedded, called Windows Embedded Standard 2009, is based on Windows XP. Microsoft never made a version based on Windows Vista. Interesting.
Today, Microsoft Corp. released the Windows 7-based Windows Embedded Standard 2011 (formerly code-named "Quebec") Community Technology Preview (CTP) to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and developers of specialized devices worldwide through its immediate public availability. Windows Embedded Standard 2011 delivers the latest Windows 7 technologies to OEMs, enabling them to bring high-performing specialized devices to market faster, to differentiate those devices through innovative user experiences, and to delight their customers with devices that extend the Windows user experience to specialized devices from Windows-based PCs, servers and online services.
Windows Embedded Standard 2011 delivers the power, familiarity and reliability of the Windows 7 operating system in a highly customizable and componentized form, enabling OEMs in industrial automation, entertainment, consumer electronics and other markets to focus on their core competencies and create product differentiation.
Another sign that Microsoft is rapidly putting the bad taste of Vista behind it.