Microsoft has announced availability of Version 2.5 of its .NET Micro Framework. Updates and enhancements to .NET Micro Framework version 2.5 focus on two main areas:
- Web Services on Devices technology preview. Version 2.5 of the .NET Micro Framework includes a Web Services on Devices implementation compatible with the implementation built into Vista and supported by the other Windows Embedded platforms. With Web Services on Devices, devices can discover and communicate with Windows-based PCs or with other devices on the network with no user configuration.
- Native TCP/IP stack support. Version 2.5 of the .NET Micro Framework adds a native TCP/IP stack to the platform, making it easier than ever for original equipment manufacturers to build platforms with network connectivity.
"The .NET Micro Framework extends Microsoft''s embedded offerings to an even smaller world of connected devices," said Colin Miller, product unit manager of the .NET Micro Framework at Microsoft. "With version 2.5, we've made significant updates to the platform in response to partner feedback. Our partners continue to validate the platform. The .NET Micro Framework is already being used in a variety of current hardware offerings in the home and industrial automation markets, the automotive industry, in PC peripherals, and in a wide variety of innovative consumer devices."