License Expands ARM Options

A new licensing agreement for the ARM processor architecture will likely give Microsoft greater input into the design of processors based on ARM’s intellectual property, ensuring that such processors are optimized to run Windows Embedded Compact, Windows Phone 7, and Windows Embedded Handheld. These optimized processors will make Windows Embedded OS and platforms more desirable for specialized devices, including personal digital assistants (PDAs), smartphones, and handheld terminals for specialized line-of-business applications, but it is still unclear how Microsoft will leverage the new license.

Why License ARM’s Architecture?

ARM and Microsoft have worked together for more than 13 years to ensure that Microsoft’s Embedded Compact OS (formerly Windows CE) and platforms, such as Windows Mobile, run on ARM-based processors. Many companies already build a variety of devices that use a Microsoft embedded OS or platform running on an ARM-based processor. Such devices include PDAs, smartphones, navigation devices, and in-car information and entertainment systems. In July 2010, this relationship was deepened with the signing of an architecture agreement.