Is Microsoft working on Windows for robots, other products?

A Microsoft site called Windows on Devices briefly went live briefly Tuesday. Before it was taken down, the site suggested that Windows could run on robots and a so-called "smart coffee mug."

Microsoft may soon get into the swing of the Internet of Things.

Some Web users discovered a Microsoft site late Tuesday called Windows on Devices that detailed the company's vision for bringing Windows to a wide range of devices, including robots, talking bears, and even a smart coffee mug, according to The Verge.

After the site was discovered, Microsoft quickly took it down. The site now redirects to Windows Azure information.

The Internet of Things describes the integration of smart technology and Web connections in devices that have not -- up to this point -- had such innovations. A smart coffee mug would fit into that category, as would talking bears.

Speculation abounds that Microsoft's Windows on Devices page is a lead-up to the company's Build conference this week. Microsoft is expected to discuss Windows, and part of that conversation could relate to the operating system making its way to a broad range of devices.

Whether Microsoft would actually want to bring Windows to items like a talking bear and coffee mug, however, remains to be seen. The Internet of Things is certainly designed to extend smart technology to "dumb" devices, but a coffee mug or bear? That might be a stretch.

We should get our answers after the Build conference kicks off in San Francisco. As always, CNET will be there to cover every last drop.

CNET has contacted Microsoft for comment. We will update this story when we have more information.

Microsoft's shares are up 10 cents to $41.52 in pre-market trading on Wednesday.

Source: 

- http://www.cnet.com/news/is-microsoft-working-on-windows-for-robots-other-products/#ftag=CADf328eec

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