Embedded/Real-Time Operating Systems - VDC Research

Market Overview
Devices are coming – billions of devices are already here – and software is
everywhere
Embedded devices and systems have permeated
where we live, where we work, how we travel, and
how we communicate. Billions of devices shipping
on an annual basis that span various applications
include high availability, safety-critical, and security
requirements.
“At one time, embedded devices were something
you found on the factory floor; now, everyone is
using some form of personal embedded device:
smartphones, tablets, etc.”
- Embedded OS supplier
Historically many of these types of devices would
have limited resources with respect to processor
performance, memory, and connectivity - creating
islands of technology and disconnected data. The
availability of more complex system/hardware
architectures, more advanced software, and
connectivity has created new scenarios for smart,
smarter, and now as some would refer to as
“intelligent systems” creating new experiences for
business and consumers.
For business, the opportunity is immense.
Embedded devices located at the edge of networks
can be linked to a cloud computing architecture
and to the backend enterprise IT ecosystem upon
which data aggregation and analytics can drive
near real-time business decisions. It also opens up
the possibilities for new types of applications to be
created that can result in new value-add services.
Embedded operating system (EOS) suppliers have
long recognized the challenges faced by original
equipment manufacturers (OEMs);
• Development budgets under scrutiny;
• Tight delivery timeframes;
• New functionality;
• Insufficient resources; and
• A competitive landscape (Margins under
pressure).
However, EOS vendors must be vigilant and
maintain flexibility in meeting evolutionary changes
within device development platforms to meet
customers’ requirements around security, support
for new hardware architectures, embedded
virtualization, cloud computing, and other emerging
trends within the market.
“We’re seeing less economic uncertainty than
we have in recent years. While we’re seeing
market activity pick up, economic and geopolitical
hurdles remain. Despite this, the
economic climate of recent years has only
exacerbated the requirement to deliver time-tomarket
and cost benefits.”
- Embedded OS supplier
Some EOS suppliers have begun to focus there
attention and resources on enterprise markets
specifically around secure solutions. Other
suppliers have looked to divest certain aspects of
their business and redefine their strategic direction
with a focus on growing existing customers. Some
are faced with uncertain austerity measures with
military budgets worldwide and the potential for
reduced spending on new electronic system
projects.
For these and many other reasons, the embedded
software market remains a challenging
environment for software solution providers and
will continue to accommodate a variety of OSs.
OEMs will need to determine what features and
capabilities best meet their needs.
Many EOS vendors have evolved from offering a
discrete product to integrated and optimized
solutions including development tools, middleware,
professional services, and other key solution
elements critical to their customers’ success.
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© 2012 VDC Research Group, Inc.
Embedded Software & Tools
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