What to know about Windows CE

Why Windows CE?

Though it was launched in 2006, many OEMs still build and ship products on Windows CE, the only true “real time” operating system Microsoft offers. It is ideal for smaller devices with low minimum hardware requirements.

Many OEM customers have created embedded devices that run on Windows CE products and have manufactured these devices for years. The CE family of products all received 15 years of life, allowing them to standardize products knowing that the CE product will always be available. The CE family continued until 2013 when the last edition was released, Windows Compact 2013 General Embedded.

Can I still sell products built on Windows CE?

Yes, you can still ship devices running Windows CE 5.0 and 6.0 when you exercise CE Downgrade Rights. Windows CE 4.0 and 4.2 are not eligible for downgrade rights.

What are downgrade rights?

Downgrade Rights allow you to use prior versions of Microsoft software, not other editions of the software released simultaneously unless explicitly stated in the Product Terms. Downgrade Rights are granted to certain operating systems (for example Windows XP and Windows 10 IoT SAC) once they reach their EOL date.

OEMs are able to downgrade to Windows CE5.0 and 6.0 from Windows CE7 Pro (C7P) (884-00364) until its EOL date on 2/28/2026. Later, Microsoft also announced the option for OEMs to downgrade to Windows CE 5.0 and 6.0 from Windows Compact 2013 General Embedded (TNA-00028), which has a lower price point. This gives the OEM the option to downgrade until 2/26/2028.

OEMS can downgrade to Windows CE 5.0/6.0 from WEC 2013 using the SKU below:

OEMS can downgrade to Windows CE 5.0/6.0 from Windows Embedded Compact 7 (C7P) using the SKU below:

EOL and EOS dates for Windows CE 6.0