 | July 1, 2000 |
Java to go
TRENDS: Sun targets wireless devices
In the battle over whose software will power future mobile devices, score one for Sun Microsystems. Sun has ported Java, its platform-independent programming language, to the consumer and embedded markets. At its recent JavaOne conference, the company also touted a number of partnerships and upcoming products that will capitalize on the mobile-specific flavor of Java.
The Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME) specifically addresses the small-footprint and performance requirements of mobile phones, pagers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). J2ME includes the MID (mobile information device) profile, which supports such features as downloading new applications and services across a network.
Already, numerous companies have licensed J2ME to develop networked products and applications for the wireless space.
Research In Motion (RIM) is shipping its RIM 950 and RIM 957 handheld devices, which include an early release of J2ME. The embedded Java technology allows these wireless personal organizers to adapt as consumers subscribe to new services such as enterprise access, entertainment, or additional communication capabilities.
LG Telecom plans to ship J2ME-based phones this summer. The Korean company will collaborate with Sun to develop interactive applications and services for its ez-i CDMA handsets.
Motorola is providing developers with J2ME-based development tools through its Metrowerks subsidiary. In addition, Motorola has demonstrated its own wireless devices using the J2ME platform, including the iDEN platform, a prototype smart phone and wireless messaging device for two-way data on GSM networks.
Motorola and Sega have signed a global strategic alliance to bring a wide assortment of entertainment software to Java-enabled wireless phones, pagers, and PDAs. Sega has developed an optimized suite of games for J2ME-enabled Motorola devices.
Nokia intends to support Java in a number of smart phones beginning in 2001 and to expand Java into other categories of its wireless devices in the future.
Zucotto, a provider of Java-based semiconductors, has a chip that combines J2ME with Bluetooth technology. The company says its chips lead to devices that run faster and consume less power than traditional wireless designs.
—Margot Suydam
| 
