Panasonic to produce new range of Windows Embedded 8 Handheld devices

CES may be over, but that doesn’t mean that the tech announcements need come to an end. In fact NRF 2014 EXPO retail industry show, Panasonic has announced that it will be working with Microsoft to produce a range of mobile devices based on the Windows Embedded 8 Handheld platform. At CES we saw Panasonic expanding its range of rugged devices and this latest venture aims to bring Windows Phone 8 technologies to enterprise customers.

The National Retail Federation EXPO is not usually home to the kind of exciting announcements found at CES, but Panasonic’s work could see Microsoft’s mobile platform being taken to the next level. Windows Embedded 8 Handheld is built on Windows Phone 8, but has been designed with enterprise use in mind, complete with enhanced security.

Panasonic is keen to deliver a range of devices that can be used in various fields. Rance Poehler, President, Panasonic System Communications Company of North America said: “Together with Microsoft, Panasonic will deliver the next generation of durable, professional-grade mobile devices for a wide range of retail applications. These future handheld devices running the Windows Embedded 8 Handheld platform will continue to connect customers, retailers and employees with the information they need to drive better outcomes.”

For Microsoft, working with Panasonic will enable penetration into more areas of different markets. Garrett Clarke, Senior Product Manager of Windows Embedded Handheld at Microsoft explains: “Our collaboration with Panasonic to deliver Windows Embedded 8 Handheld devices is a key element in delivering the power of Windows Phone 8 to enterprises in handheld devices designed for industry specific scenarios.”

If the likes of the recently announced ToughPad FZ-M1 are anything to go by, there are going to be some extremely interesting devices to look forward to from the Panasonic stables.