Microsoft talks up Windows 10 OEM partners

June 4, 2015 | 10:43

Tags: #quanta #windows-10 #windows-threshold

Companies: #acer #asus #computex #dell #foxconn #hp #intel #microsoft #nvidia

Microsoft used its keynote speech at Computex in Taipei this week to talk-up its original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partners, unveiling new machines designed to run the upcoming Windows 10 operating system.

Speaking at Computex late yesterday, Microsoft's Nick Parker, Tony Prophet and Roanne Sones introduced a range of all-in-one, ultra-portable, and convertible designs from Microsoft's OEM partners - some of which were being shown off for the first time. 'Our device partners continue to push the envelope of innovation, developing stunning PCs that are sure to delight customers,' claimed Parker. 'And our commitment to broaden the ecosystem opportunity with Windows 10 is revolutionising how people interact with their devices and create new opportunities for revenue growth.'

Described by Microsoft as 'new PC form factors,' ignoring the existence of similar devices running alternative operating systems, the highlights of the presentation included the FoxConn Kangaroo and the Quanta Compute Plug. The former was described as 'an ultra-portable desktop PC' featuring integrated battery and fingerprint reader with support for the Windows Hello system; the Compute Plug, meanwhile, is a miniature PC built into its own power supply - a trick first seen with Marvell's ARM-based SheevaPlug family, launched in 2009. Both are designed for use with HDMI-equipped TV sets.

Other devices shown off by Microsoft included the Acer Z3-710 all-in-one with 1.4"-thick chassis, Asus Zen AiO Z240 with Intel Core i7 CPU, Nvidia GTX 960M GPU, 3D camera and six-speaker sound system, the Dell XPS 15 featuring a larger InfinityEdge 'virtually borderless' display than its 13" predecessor, the HP x2 'tablet-first detachable,' and an Ultra HD-equipped Toshiba system featuring biometric authentication technology compatible with Windows Hello.

Parker also spoke of Microsoft's new commitment to the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT) market, as highlighted by its impending launch of Windows 10 IoT Core for the Raspberry Pi 2 and other single-board computers. A partnership with Toshiba was announced to develop Windows- and Azure-based IoT systems for the transportation and logistics industry, while a Windows-powered home automation system dubbed Crestron Pyng was also showcased.

Formal launch dates were not discussed as part of the keynote, but most showcased devices are expected to hit the market at the same time or shortly after the Windows 10 launch on the 29th of July.
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