If you’re using mobile devices (especially rugged devices) in your workflow, chances are Windows CE or Windows Embedded Handheld is the operating system on your device. At AbeTech we like to keep you informed on the latest industry trends. So heads up! Beginning in 2018 and concluding in 2020, Microsoft will be dropping support of multiple versions of their handheld OS.
Which Versions are affected?
Here are the affected versions and what dates you can expect to lose support from Microsoft:
Extended Support End Dates
- Windows Embedded CE 6.0 – 4/10/2018
- Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 – 1/14/2020
- Windows Embedded Compact 7 – 4/13/2021
Pay close attention to this info if any of your deployed devices are running these operating systems. There’s no need to panic right now, but once these dates come and go, you’ll risk losing access to firmware upgrades and possibly run into compatibility issues with apps on your mobile devices. You will still be able to use your devices, but be aware, new software and features may be unsupported or even incompatible with your device. Plus, modern development tools will no longer support these legacy operating systems.
Plan sooner rather than later
These dates may seem far away, but deciding to upgrade your handheld operating systems can take longer than you might think. There are often multiple teams (and that means multiple stakeholders) involved when upgrading hardware. Developing and deploy software is no simple task.
You’ll have to make sure the new operating system is supported by your current mobile devices or decide to upgrade to new hardware. Luckily, AbeTech has experienced technicians who can walk you through the process. The process of choosing the right device and getting approval from these multiple stakeholders can take up to 12 months, or sometimes longer, so the sooner you get started the better.
Partnership for the future
At AbeTech we love to use our 25 years of industry experience and expertise to help clients make smart business decisions. Our service representatives are here to make sure you have the most seamless upgrade transition possible. To get started, reach out to one of our knowledgeable support staff today. AbeTech is more than just a hardware provider; we’re your end to end solution for scanning, labeling, and productivity needs, today and into the future.
