Many of the world’s ATMs are still running Windows XP, and despite the security risks, some operators have no plans to upgrade a number of cash machines to a newer operating system anytime soon.

But in a statement today, the ATM Industry Association (ATMIA) has recommended everyone to start the migration as soon as possible and, what’s more, to skip Windows 8.1 completely.

The reason is as simple as it could be: with Windows 10 almost here, it makes much more sense to move to an operating system that would benefit from support and patches for a longer period of time.

ATM deployers should start their 2020 migration without delay, as ATM hardware purchased now will still be in use when support for Windows 7 OS ends in that year. This means terminals would need to be upgradeable and compatible with the next big operating system. It’s important to know which ATM configurations are going to be Windows 10 compatible,” CEO Mike Lee said.
Non-Windows platforms also being considered

Despite the fact that Windows 10 is now the preferred choice for ATM operators, pretty much because of its increased security and new features, it’s no secret that other embedded operating systems are also being considered, and Mike Lee says that both Android and Linux are on the table for now.

“We expect there to be some parallel trajectories in future with a mainstream solution adopted by the majority of deployers, probably Windows 10 in our view, and alternative systems like Linux and Android,” he added.

With Windows 10, Microsoft will no longer offer an embedded version of the operating system, but a dedicated IoT SKU that would be aimed at a wider range of devices, including ATMs, handheld terminals, POS devices, and any other product that can run an operating system, become smart, and connect to the surrounding devices to provide users with enhanced control.