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According to a new report, Windows 8.1 will feature some new hardware certification requirements taking effect in 2014 and 2015. These new requirements deal with Bluetooth, audio, and other hardware requirements for certified Windows 8.1 systems.
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During the Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference (WPC 2013) this week, Microsoft and Intel unveiled the new hardware requirements for Windows 8.1 devices that will be introduced in 2014 and 2015.
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“In January 2014, certified Windows systems will be required to support Bluetooth on all devices with Wi-Fi. Front-facing 720p webcams will be required for systems with integrated displays (tablets, notebooks and all-in-ones),” a report from ZDNet states. There will also be higher-fidelity auio requirements for speakers and mics to help boost sales of Microsoft’s unified communications technology Lync.
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Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0) will be required on all certified Windows devices in January of 2015. For those that don’t know, TPM is a spec and implementation for a cryptoprocessor, according to ZDnet.
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Microsoft wants Windows 8.1 to be the “number one tablet” in the business and enterprise arena. These new hardware certification requirements are a step in the right direction. Take a look at the chart below highlighting some of the requirements for Windows 8.1:
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