Yesterday, Microsoft introduced a CTP of a new Windows-like operating system, specifically designed for robots as well as all kinds of next-generation electronic devices, from toys to vacuum cleaners.
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| Source: Wikipedia. |
According to the software giant, the Microsoft Robotics Studio platform enables scientists, “amateur inventors,” and businesses to easily build robotic applications.
As microprocessors continue to improve and sensor prices decrease, the idea of robots is becoming more feasible than ever. For this reason, Microsoft aims to “get ahead” of this trend by developing “robotics” applications that control devices like vacuum cleaners or drones for search and rescue operations.
With the launch of Robotics Studio, robot inventors will have a common technology development platform that overcomes one of the current industry’s biggest barriers—the fragmentation and inconsistency caused by the use of incompatible platforms.
This CTP includes a visual programming tool designed for debugging robotic applications. Additionally, it incorporates tools that help create hardware and software module services, allowing users to interact with robots through a web interface or Windows interface.
The Key to the Future
“Microsoft sees tremendous potential in robotics, and we are excited to announce the first CTP of Robotics Studio,” stated Tandy Trower, General Manager of Microsoft Robotics at Microsoft. “We believe this is the key to the future of computing.”
Tandy also referred to robots as “the next evolution of personal computing.”
Although the current robotics market is still in its infancy, Tandy predicts that this market could rapidly reach a billion-dollar milestone within the next 5-10 years.
This CTP is currently being offered for free on the company’s website. However, there is no price or official release date for the final version yet.
Tian Yi
