Microsoft Developing Robotics Software

s31523 writes to tell us Microsoft recently announced the launch of their new Microsoft Robotics Group and the first product release, a software program to help robotics developers. Despite the timing this has nothing to do with the recent abdication by Gates, and was actually instigated by Gates before his departure. From the article "It might take many years, but Microsoft believes robotics could present a big opportunity as the market grows, said Tandy Trower, general manager of the Microsoft Robotics Group. He cited estimates predicting that consumer robotics alone will grow into a multibillion-dollar industry in five to 10 years."

Comments

Maybe they'll snag people from sony.

[denis-The-menace]

Since Sony killed their robotics division.

Re:Crazy tangent?

[ScottLindner]

Not me. Most I know of are controlled using prepriety systems. Such as PLCs.

"Every robotic system based on Windows?"...

[msauve]

The very successful Mars Rovers, which have no one around to give them a "three finger salute," are based on Wind River's VxWorks RTOS.

Re:Trouble branching out

[molarmass192]

Microsoft will eventually lose their OS and Office monopolies. They'll fight it tooth and nail, but it's inevitable. I'm not 100% sure what will eventually topple them, but Linux and OpenOffice are my bets. There's just too much momentum behind both. 5 years ago, Linux on a tech resume was rare. These days, I'd say 80% of tech resumes I see have that skill. Also, OO 2.0 is a quantum leap from OO 1.x in terms of reliability and speed. Mix in a strong anti-MS sentiment outside of the US, and increasing 3rd party app support, and you've got all the elements of a downfall in the making.