Microsoft has launched a new version of its Windows Embedded operating system that is used in thin-client laptops, kiosks, point of service devices, home automation gateways, gaming devices and set-top boxes.

Windows Embedded Standard 2009, announced at the Tech Ed North America Developers Conference, is the next generation of Windows XP Embedded. John Doyle, senior product manager for Windows Embedded, said the software will help developers quickly build services for applications for existing enterprise infrastructure.

Windows Embedded Standard is a componentized version of XP, allowing developers to choose the features they want for their applications. The new Windows Embedded Standard release provides support for the Microsoft Silverlight browser, the Remote Desktop Protocol 6.1 and the .NET Framework 3.5.

Doyle said the new version includes Wi-Fi’s latest security protocols and likely will be used in thin client mobile devices where records are kept on a server rather than on the device. An example could be in a medical environment where the data needs to be secured on the server.