Latest Windows Embedded CE puts focus on Silverlight

He declined to weigh in on how Silverlight's performance on Windows Embedded CE compares to Adobe Systems Inc.'s Flash player. "You can't really compare it directly, as it depends too much on the hardware layer," Wurster said.

Windows Embedded CE is developed separately from the desktop and server versions of Windows, though it borrows features from them. It can be easily broken down into component parts, allowing it to be installed sans features such as a Web browser or media player, making it suitable for devices with little RAM or storage.

Microsoft is starting to aim Windows Embedded CE at smartbooks -- netbook-like devices using ARM chips that are expected to start arriving this Christmas.

Microsoft also announced the availability of the next version of Windows Embedded Enterprise. This is basically the full version of Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Professional offered under a special license for makers of non-PC hardware -- typically ATMs, kiosks and digital signs, according to Ashwin Kulkarni, senior product manager for the Windows Embedded team.

Using Windows 7 was not a surprise. Microsoft earlier this month released a preview of Windows Embedded Standard 2011 that is based on Windows 7.