Microsoft Windows 10 For IoT Released, Windows Light For Makers And Single Board Computers

A mere two weeks following the release of Windows 10 for desktops and notebooks comes a slimmed-down version for IoT (Internet of Things) devices. What makes the release of this edition a little interesting is the fact that it's targeted at ARM-based devices, but despite that, owners of Windows RT-based devices are not being treated to their own version.

That could be for a good reason, though, as the IoT version of Windows 10 is likely to be even more pared-down than Windows RT, and given the target is the Raspberry Pi, Arduino and Intel's MinnowBoard, that's probably all the proof we need.

One of the best things about Windows 10 IoT is that it's absolutely free to download from Microsoft's GitHub page. Also found there are a number of resources to help make the most of the OS, especially if you plan to develop with it.

On the topic of development, Microsoft has a few ideas for you. Why not build a weather station? How about a robot? Web server? Temperature sensor? It's hard to say if Windows 10 IoT will be better for any of these things over Linux, but if there's one takeaway from anything here, it's that Microsoft really wants you to use Windows.