Microsoft pushes new Windows 8.1 hardware certification requirements

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As we are getting closer to see Windows 8.1 RTM in the hands of PC makers, Microsoft is now planning to implement new hardware certification requirement guidelines that future Windows 8 devices will have to meet.

The software giant made the announcement at the Worldwide Partner Conference and some of the upcoming minimum requirements include Bluetooth support in all the devices that feature Wi-Fi, front-facing camera with a minimum resolution of 720p for systems with integrated screens, and high fidelity audio hardware.

The interesting part is that all the specifications are in addition to Windows 8.1 new support for NFC, Miracast wireless display projection, Wi-Fi Direct print, internet sharing, InstantGo (formerly known as Connected Standby) for instant on and keep the device up to date, and biometric authentication. Microsoft hopes to see devices having this new certifications by 2014 and 2015.

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In another note, Microsoft has updated its Windows Hardware Certification Requirements to reflect the new company changes. (You can download the PDF here.)

Source ZDnet via Engadget

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Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.