Filipino Programmer | Philippines

May 11, 2007, Microsoft Corp. and flash memory maker SanDisk Corp. partnered to build a new generation of USB drives and memory cards which lets users carry on their own pocket their personalized desktops and applications to any Windows PC.

SanDisk spokesman Mike Langberg

Think of this as taking U3 to the next level. Microsoft’s involvement is important because it will bring better integration with the operating system; it’s a name other hardware manufacturers know.

Emphasis will be put on boosting the personal environment concept, where flash drives or memory cards store a customized interface or launch pad, user-selected applications and data. Users will be able to carry this “computer-on-a-stick” to any public or shared Windows XP or Vista machine, plug it in, and begin working with familiar tools and personalized settings. When the drive or card is removed, there is no trace of the user’s work left on the PC.

Running personalized environments such as Windows and Linux thru USB drives has been around for quite a time, some examples are:

PE Builder Project
MojoPac
Damn Small Linux
Smallest Portable Mac

Running other applications or USB Hacks like these:

PC Repair System
DemocraKey
List of Portable Applications

With Microsoft and SanDisk partnership, USB drives potential is going to the next level of computing. For software developers, this will open a new playground of unexplored environment for USB-able applications. I am looking forward to whatever results this partnership may produce. USB drives are very handy and itis wide range of potential use are vast.

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