With the recent release of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview and Windows Server 8 beta, along with this week's launch of SQL Server 2012 and Windows Embedded Standard 8 CTP, Microsoft is offering a good look at a new, common set of technologies that spans specialized devices, servers, PCs and applications.

ENGADGET: Windows Embedded Standard 8 preview now available for download

It is really a hodgepodge of different products including server software, Visual Studio, Windows Embedded device platforms and consulting services.

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