Brussels, 20/11/2006 (Agence Europe) - The Finnish government announced that it is to fund the joint technological initiative (ITC) ARTEMIS (Advanced Research and Technology for Embedded Intelligence and Systems) to the tune of 70 million EUR during the period covered by the seventh framework programme for research and development. ITC ARTEMIS aims to promote the pan-European coordination of research and development into embedded information technology applications, as embedded systems design computers and microprocessors to be housed within everyday objects and which cannot be modified by consumers. The use of such systems has seen a rapid expansion recently, and has been extended to a wide range of consumer articles, from mobile telephones to medical equipment, via calculators, televisions and microwave ovens, and the ABS braking system used in cars. A press release states that ARTEMIS shows great ambition in its efforts to bring a wide range of public and private players together. Since its preparatory phase in 2002, a total of 30 European businesses, including Nokia, have joined. In terms of funding, the initiative is seeking 5.4 billion EUR for its first four years of operating, starting from 2007. Some half of its costs will be paid for by the industry, and the other half will be covered by the Member States individually and European funds, on the approval of the competent institutions. (oj)