Sun's Java Software Technology Gains Momentum with AOL Deal

Strategic Insights -

Sun's Java software technology is gaining momentum after a significant deal with America Online (AOL) was announced, making Java a key player in the development of internet-enabled devices. The partnership, which includes Netscape, aims to capitalize on Java's ability to run on any computer, regardless of its operating system. This move is expected to accelerate the growth of Java as a widely used software platform, giving developers more freedom to create programs that can run on multiple platforms.

Key Takeaways:

  • The deal between Sun, AOL, and Netscape is a significant boost to Sun's Java software technology, making it a key player in the development of internet-enabled devices.
  • Java is a programming language that is independent of a computer's operating system, allowing its programs to run on any computer.
  • The partnership aims to use Java for AOL's next-generation consumer software and internet access devices, such as TV set-top boxes.
  • Microsoft has made similar deals to get its Windows CE software into non-computer devices, but AOL's endorsement of Java will likely prompt more companies to offer programs written in Java.
  • The programming community is watching eagerly, and experts predict that the deal will accelerate the growth of Java as a widely used software platform.

Statistics:

  • The partnership between Sun, AOL, and Netscape is expected to give Java a significant boost in the marketplace. (Source: USA Today)
  • Java is currently widely used to create interactive web sites, but the partnership aims to expand its use to other areas, such as consumer software and internet access devices. (Source: USA Today)
  • The deal comes on the heels of a major court ruling that promotes Java as a software language that runs on any computer, whether it runs Microsoft's Windows or not. (Source: USA Today)

Sources:

  • USA Today (1998) "AOL to Use Java's 'Write Once, Run Anywhere' Technology on Internet Devices"

http://www.usatoday.com (19981129/WIRES PC, ONLINE, BUSINESS/)

  • Gartner Group (1998) Chris Le Tocq, software analyst, interviewed by USA Today
  • Sun Microsystems (1998) Scott McNealy, chief executive officer, interviewed by USA Today
  • Linux International (1998) Jon Hall, executive director, interviewed by USA Today