14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has just announced that the Sharks Cove development board is available for pre-orders and can be yours for only $299 (€170) from Mouser Electronics.
As we’ve already told you, the device features an Intel ATOM Z3735G processor and can run both Windows 8.1 and Android. Its purpose is to help developers create hardware and drivers for Windows and Android.
“Along with the purchase of this board, developers will have free access to step-by-step documentation, software development and debugging tools, as well as a Windows 8.1 image. Microsoft employees will be available on hand to provide support on our MSDN Forum,” Microsoft explains.
Even though many people compared the Sharks Cove with the well-known Raspberry Pi, Microsoft says that its own device has no rival right now because it’s a lot more advanced and can even run Windows 8.1.
As mentioned, the package also includes a Windows 8.1 device and although it’s more expensive than the Raspberry Pi, which retails for around $35 (€28), it has much more advanced capabilities that help develop drivers and applications.
“The primary focus for Sharks Cove is to support Windows IHV’s and ODM’s, who need a Windows compatible system that is appropriate for hardware and driver development. Sharks Cove is a fully functional PC so you can install desktop and Windows Store apps to facilitate your development and testing and even your general enjoyment of the device,” the company says.