From Windows to Android
Migrating a mobile operating system: information, advice and tips from the experts
What are the benefits of migrating from Windows to Android?
How well you master these challenges depends above all on how quickly you switch to modern mobile devices running Android™, and thus to faster, leaner operations.
Who is affected?
Support for the Microsoft platforms Windows CE 6 and Windows Mobile / Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 has been discontinued, so this affects all customers whose applications currently run on them.
What are the consequences?
Extended Microsoft support (security updates) ended for Windows CE 6 at the beginning of 2018 and for Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 at the beginning of 2020. After that, no more patches can be provided for vulnerabilities or bugs in the Microsoft code. For these reasons, many companies have already planned the move to other applications that run on a modern operating system.
How can I act?
Given that support for their current operating system is ending, many customers now have to decide how to proceed, as application development is a time-consuming and costly process. One way to postpone the final decision a little and keep all options open is to switch to hardware that can support several operating systems.
Benefits and tips
Download our info sheet “Your easy migration from Windows to Android with the OPAL team of experts” here (PDF, German).
You have migration questions. OPAL has the answers.
When does Microsoft support for Windows end?
Extended Microsoft support ends as follows:
- on 1 January 2020 for the Windows Embedded and Mobile operating systems.
- on 1 January 2021 for Windows Embedded Compact.
What does the end of Microsoft support mean in general and for me specifically?
For Windows Embedded 6.5, Microsoft provides new features, bug fixes, security patches and so on during the support period. Support usually runs for ten years from the product’s initial release and ends with the so-called “end of support” for the product. With the end of support for Windows® Embedded 6.5 in 2020 and for Windows® Embedded Compact 7.0 in 2021, Microsoft no longer provides:
- Technical support for problems that arise.
- Bug fixes for issues that can affect the stability and usability of the server.
- Security patches for vulnerabilities that can make the server vulnerable to attacks.
- Time zone updates.
- You will no longer receive service packs with new features but, above all, security updates will stop, leaving your system unprotected against criminal attacks.
Should I upgrade now?
Yes. If you want to keep pace with the growing demand for productivity in your industry and ensure device security, upgrade the devices used in your operation every day now.
My devices work without any problems. Should I still migrate?
Yes. Some components, such as chips, are no longer manufactured for older Windows devices. When stocks run out, you will be forced to retire these devices. This can have serious consequences for your day-to-day operations.
Why is it better to upgrade the entire device rather than just the operating system?
New hardware brings improved functions, parts continuity (fewer problems with consumable components), better battery performance and higher productivity thanks to intuitive user interfaces in new form factors.
Can I avoid having to adapt my apps?
That depends on the application. Zebra’s All-Touch Terminal Emulation, powered by Ivanti, runs immediately on all your green-screen devices. For other apps, migration is unavoidable given the end of Microsoft support. The only question is when you want to start benefiting from modern technology. Now or later?
Is Android™ secure?
Yes. Android is continually enhanced with security optimisations such as “NSA Security-Enhanced Linux” (SELinux), per-user VPN, Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) and more. The Android OS meets legal security requirements in many industries, including PCI DSS (retail), HIPAA (healthcare) and FIPS 140-2 (government).
Are security breaches a risk in warehousing?
Yes. Every company is a potential victim. Most of your devices run Windows CE, a 20-year-old operating system whose architecture is not designed for modern threats. Just think of Spectre. Microsoft has announced that it will not provide patches for such vulnerabilities for these devices, a serious risk for your operations.
Standard support for Android OS lasts three years. How does Zebra support my device for five or ten years?
Consumer device vendors only offer three years of security support, significantly less than the five or more years you need. By purchasing Zebra OneCare, you extend the protection of your Android devices from Zebra with LifeGuard™ for Android for up to ten years. With LifeGuard you benefit from reliable, regular security updates when moving to a newer operating system, as well as security support for older operating systems. Frequent updates increase security, and with LifeGuard they are installed exactly the way you want, either locally or remotely.
