Microsoft began 2011 with high expectations surrounding its Windows 7 OS, but the company faces mounting pressure to continue expansion into new industries.
The company recently rolled out a Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 beta alongside Windows Embedded POSReady 7, while the company looks to expand on its software business. Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 was promoted by Motorola and other partners last year for consumers and the enterprise, while Windows Embedded POSReady 7 is a software platform designed for businesses.
Microsoft was oddly quiet during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) last week, though is expected to heavily promote Windows 7 this year. Last August, the new OS overtook Windows Vista in marketshare, with the various Windows operating systems still controlling the majority of the consumer space.
Meanwhile, the Microsoft Windows 7 Service Pack 1 final release was recently made available to OEMs, with another version expected for consumers. OEMs will begin to receive the update by the end of the week, and it will be utilized starting immediately.
It has been possible to find copies of Windows 7 SP1 via BitTorrent, but Microsoft and security experts recommend Windows users wait for the official release. Meanwhile, Microsoft first made a Windows 7 SP1 RC available last October, with the company progressing as users embrace its latest OS.
The company's mobile efforts have underwhelmed partners, mobile phone users, as LG and other manufacturers grow weary of Microsoft's mobile struggles.
The software company has seen success with its Xbox 360 game console, but has faced increase pressure from rival operating systems, Web browsers, and software.
