Hardware Tip: Preparing for Operating Systems’ End of Life

When Is Microsoft Ending Support for Windows OS on Handhelds?

If you’re running a Windows CE or Windows Embedded Handheld today, these dates are when your current handhelds experienced End of Life:

• June 10, 2018 - Windows Embedded CE 6.0  End of Life
• June 9, 2019 -  Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheld End of Life
• January 14, 2020 - Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 End of Life
  

What does Windows End of Life mean for you?

Authorized hardware vendors like RF-SMART are not able to purchase devices on these legacy Windows systems anymore, and all technological advances and updates have ceased. Microsoft support (security fixes) ended for Windows CE 6 in early 2018 and ended for Windows Embedded Handheld devices 6.5 earlier this year.  Vulnerability or errors found in Microsoft's code will no longer be fixed. Over the past few years, we've helped many customers plan a transition to new applications. Having an upgrade strategy will ensure there are no hiccups in your operations.

Steps to Take to Prepare for OS End Of Life

As you work on your transition plan, you need to take into account how many devices you need to upgrade.  We want our customers to have access to the most up-to-date, secure and reliable technology.  We are finding that the leading Operating System to consider is Android. These popular devices control 80% of the world smartphone marketplace—making it an easy transition for users. This also expands your hardware options to manufacturers like Honeywell and Zebra. There is a big push to put current versions of Android onto rugged devices and handhelds for the warehouse. 

For a quick reference, here is a chart which will help in determining the most logical hardware upgrade path:

Want to try out a device?

Added benefits of Android devices

• Android provides ease of use and customization
  One of the many benefits of Android devices is their flexibility. Androids are Open Source devices, meaning the operating system is open to be changed. There’s loads of apps and other customization (such as the home screen) that can really tailor the device to your needs. Android enables companies to access a large ecosystem of applications, development tools, and resources. 
  
  
• Android is future-ready
  All new scanners will operate on the Android system for years to come. Additionally, as younger generations take over warehouse operations, they will be more familiar with web applications than with older telnet applications.

• Android is secure
  Android offers flexible networking and strong  security features, such as seamless updates like Chrome. There are a lot of customizable security settings, as well as the ability to select specific network channels.

What is the next step? End of Life might seem scary, but if you plan ahead, there is nothing to panic over.  Start by contacting your RF-SMART Hardware Advisor.  In evaluating new devices, we will want to understand if some of your requirements may have changed or if you may want to look at devices with a different form factor. Our team will work with you to determine the best device that meets your needs and will grow with you into the future.

Speak to a Hardware Representative to create an upgrade plan tailored to your business and budget. 

Additional Resources for your OS Migration:

• Mobile Operating System Transition Whitepaper from Honeywell
• Windows CE End of Life: OS Migration Options with Zebra and RF-SMART
• Windows CE End of Life: Hardware for Every Industry with Zebra and RF-SMART
• Future Proofing with Mobility Edge Whitepaper from Honeywell
• Free PDF Download of Windows EOL Infographic
   

This blog was originally published on March 20, 2018, but was recently updated to include the most up-to-date information.