There are many different kinds of embedded systems. They are in devices that get used by consumers, in industry, in commerce, etc. In a way, they reflect a modern ability to put more intelligence into the tools we now use.
This is from the IEEE FAQ 242-19:
"...They are computer based systems embedded in real life devices machines. Though computer based, they do not have the usual key-board and monitors. The processor and related circuitry is configured to do a specific task. Examples are: the 8/16 bit processor that controls the ignition in your car, the fuzzy logic controller in your washing machine, your mobile, navigation guidance in an aircraft/spacecraft, and so on... Most of the embedded systems are reactive - that means, they acquire data from external world (like temperature, user inputs, position data etc.) and the embedded program processes these and gives specific outputs.
An embedded system, therefore, usually needs to be very reliable, occupy less space and consume minimum resources (memory, power etc.)..."
To see the kind of embedded systems which embeddedengineering are involved in designing, programming and manufacturing, see our Projects and Development page (The Link is at left of this page).
There are many other examples of embedded systems like those in:
Embedded Systems are not only complicated high volume (ie many units) products containing embedded systems. An embedded system can be as simple as a device consisting of a few discrete electronic components. As requirements like speed, cost, target numbers etc change, systems tend to use different technologies.